Supported Runner Project - Colwick parkrun pilot
About the Colwick parkrun pilot
We currently support disabled people to take part in larger running events from 10KM events up to marathons, by matching them up with a Support Runner who can support on the day of the event, all the way to the finish line. We are now looking to expand into shorter distances and community runs and Parkrun is the next step! Our aim is support more disabled people to get active and break down barriers to take part in running and community events. Support Runners are people who are experienced runners, they also attend our training to make sure they understand how to support you, and are DBS-checked.
As this is a pilot, our aim is to provide a small group of volunteer Support Runners to support disabled people to complete a Parkrun, starting with Colwick. Support runners can support with a range of different things, for example, support to ease anxieties and overwhelm being in large crowds, motivation and encouragement, helping you pace and navigate the route and physical support such as tying laces.
Because we know how daunting attending your first parkrun can be, our team has put together two versions of accessible ‘pre-parkrun guides’ to answer any questions you might have about what to expect, including how to register, the route itself and anything else that might be worrying you, or has put you off taking part until now.
When can I get support?
Our Support Runners will be at Parkrun every second Saturday of the month from November onwards. You can pre-register your attendance for each month, or simply turn up on the day and meet our Support Runners by the yellow barriers at the Racecourse Car Park at 8.30am.
Contact us
To find out more about our peer mentoring programme, contact Becky Luxton
Email: supportedrunner@whitehead.foundation
Call or text: 07355 639509
Meet the parkrun team
We currently have a team of 9 support runners who are all experienced park runners and will support you to walk, jog, roll or run and complete Parkrun your way.
Our team consists of, Andres, Morag, Rebecca, Lynn, Claire, Helen, Craig, Katy and Debi
