🏃Volunteer with us!🏃

We are also looking for volunteers to help assist the programme by acting as 'running buddies'. Your role is to support the runners and ensure they are safely taking part and feel confident trying new things. You will also help the runners fill out pre and post surveys. This is a limited project lasting around 6 weeks. You will need to attend a 2 hour Feeling Strong induction and commit to attending a Scottish Mental Health First Aid Course (if not already completed).

What’s in it for you? Travel expenses will be reimbursed and you will have the opportunity to undergo FREE Scottish Mental Health First Aid training (normally £250, subject to availability). In this role, you will develop your experience working within small groups, working with young people 1-1 in a group setting and gain confidence talking about mental health.  

To find out more and to apply please visit https://www.govolunteerdundee.scot/o/Feeling-Strong/activities/Running-Buddies-Volunteer/121876 

FAQs

Who is it for?

Running Buddies is for any young person age 16-26 living, working or studying in Dundee. Have you ever wanted to try running but not sure where to start? Want an inclusive and welcoming environment to try something new? Or do you just want some company? Then Running Buddies is for you! This is a chance to try a new sport in a safe, supportive environment and meet new people. You do not need any prior experience with running, and you can take it at your own pace.

What should I expect?

You can expect to try out running in a safe, supportive environment with the help of volunteers and qualified coaches. This will be a safe space for you to try something new and talk about what's going on in your life. We would recommend coming along to all 6 sessions to build your confidence and skills. Prior to the course starting, the group will have the chance to meet the coaches, volunteers and each other for an induction to get to know each other.

What do I need to bring?

We'd recommend bringing a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated and a small snack. You don't need any fancy sports clothing, wear what makes you feel most comfortable. You can buy affordable sports clothing from the charity shops and Sports Direct. Look for synthetic materials like nylon, polyester and spandex. These fabrics are lightweight and moisture wicking which will help to regulate your temperature. Shorts, joggers, leggings and skorts and all good choices for bottoms. Try to avoid cotton jumpers as you will get very warm, be prepared that you may need to take a jumper off if you get too hot!

What about the funding towards a pair of running shoes?

To reduce some of the barriers to running, Feeling Strong are able to provide running shoes (up to the cost of £45) per participant. It is the participants responsibility to purchase the pair of running shoes and Feeling Strong will reimburse* the participant up to the cost of £45. Not sure what to look for in a pair of running shoes? Check out our handy guide to help you find the right shoe. *Feeling strong reserves the right to not reimburse the participant if we deem the running shoes are not fit for purpose. If you are unsure about the shoes, please get in touch with Feeling Strong before purchasing.

How do I sign up?

Sign up via the referral form here. Once you sign up, you will be invited along to a group induction before the sessions start so you can get to know the other people who you will be running with. By signing up to the project, you agree to the terms and conditions laid out in the form. If you have any questions or would like to talk about the project further, please get in touch with emma.deans@feelingstrong.co.uk.