NCM colleagues lace up for Warrington Running Festival challenge

A North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust colleague is taking on the Warrington Running Festival half marathon this September to raise funds for WHH Charity, while bringing colleagues together through a new staff running club.

Helen Seddon, specialist nurse for safeguarding children, will take on the 13.1 mile challenge on Sunday 20 September after being inspired by the teamwork and friendships she saw through her own social running group.

Helen has already completed previous fundraising challenges, including the London Marathon in 2025, but this challenge is about more than completing the distance. It’s an opportunity to raise money for WHH Charity while connecting with colleagues across the newly integrated organisation.

As part of her training, Helen has started an informal running club for colleagues who want to take part in the challenge alongside her. The group meets for weekly longer runs, gradually building up the distance ahead of race day.

Helen said: “Watching my running group train together for the London Virtual Marathon showed me how much support, encouragement and friendship can come from running together.

“I thought it would be a great way to meet colleagues from across WHH and the wider trust who I may not normally work with, while doing something positive for WHH Charity.

“The running club isn't about being the fastest or breaking records. It’s about challenging ourselves, getting fit, supporting each other and hopefully encouraging more people to get involved.”

Alongside the running challenge, Helen will also be fundraising for WHH Charity through activities including a cake sale and fundraising events later in the year.

Every donation will help WHH Charity continue supporting patients, families and staff across Warrington and Halton by funding projects and improvements that go beyond what NHS funding can provide.

Join team WHH Charity at this year’s Warrington Running Festival.