We are very excited to introduce Mental Elf to Swindon, a festive fun run/walk open to all ages and abilities, everyone is welcome!

Held in the centre of Swindon, this event isn’t just about raising funds, it’s about bringing our community together and shining a light on the importance of mental health and wellbeing, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re an experienced runner, a casual walker, or just coming along for the festive vibes!

What to Expect

A relaxed, family-friendly 5K/2K fun run or walk

Christmas fancy dress (with a prize for the best dressed Elf/little Elf!)

A festive best dressed dog competition, bring your furry friends!

An inclusive and accessible event for all ages and abilities

Special discounts for families, groups and corporate teams

A Mental Elf Festive Fun Run medal for all taking part

Every pound raised supports our vital mental health services across Swindon and Gloucestershire over the Christmas period. So, dust off your elf ears, gather your team, and help us make a diffence this Christmas!

Fundraising

Whilst fundraising isn’t compulsory for this event, we would encourage each person taking part to reach a target of £50. The more money you raise, the more people we can help. You may wish to ask family, friends or colleagues for sponsorship. So, set up your JustGiving page today using this link Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind - JustGiving Please remember to put Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind as your chosen charity.

Why your support matters

As Christmas approaches, we’re reminded of the joy and warmth this season brings. But for many in our community, especially those facing mental health challenges, it can be a difficult time. At Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind, we are committed to ensuring no one has to face these challenges alone, especially during the festive season.

This Christmas, we are asking for your support to continue providing our essential services, which offers a lifeline for those struggling with mental health. Every donation helps ensure that no one is left to face their challenges in isolation.

What does a ticket include?

A place in the Mental Elf Festive Fun Run 2k/5k 2026 and a victory medal

Free warm-up session with a trainer

Free entertainment

Free mental elf festive fun run medal

Location, location, location

The Mental Elf festive fun run will occur in the GWR Park, in the city centre. Please click this link for Bristol Street Parking Information. A 6 minute walk from the park.

Timings:

Registration desk open from 10:00am

Warm up at 10:45am

5k route starts from 11:00am

Warm up at 11:00am

2k route (3 clockwise laps) starts from 11:15am

Please note: Participants under the age of 14 must be accompanied at the event by their parent or legal guardian or by an over 18 year old who has the permission of that participant’s parent or legal guardian.

Corporate opportunities

Partnering with us for Mental Elf festive fun run 2026 would be an excellent opportunity to raise your business profile whilst supporting Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind’s vital work.

Supporting people’s mental health has never been more important than it is right now. Your colleagues, customers, suppliers and the communities you want to reach all have mental health. There’s no better time to show your company’s commitment to improving mental health for everyone. We have several sponsorship opportunities and ways you could support us. Please email fundraising@sgmind.org.uk for more inforamtion.

Volunteering opportunities

We would not be able to make Mental Elf festive fun run a success without the support of amazing volunteers. We have various roles available, if you would like to volunteer on this event, please complete this form.

For more information and questions about tickets, volunteering or sponsoring this event please email lindawoodward@sgmind.org.uk who will be happy to help.

We hope you have an elf-tastic time!

Description supplied by the event organiser.