Running on Empty campaign focuses on mental health in security sector

Co-founded by Chris Middleton CSyP MSyI (director of major accounts and strategic development at Corps Security and an Advisory Board member for IFPO UK), Judy Atkinson (chief growth officer at EarnFlex), Sarah Hayes (Human Resources director for Securitas UK) and Farah B (director of the FFA Security Group), supported by the Security Industry Authority and now officially registered as a Community Interest Company, Running on Empty is not solely a campaign. It’s also a movement that absolutely recognises the profound connection between running and mental well-being.

The overriding commitment is to offer a platform – at the heart of which is the campaign website (www.runningonempty.co.uk) – that “seamlessly integrates” physical fitness and mental wellness, catering specifically for the rather unique challenges confronted by today’s security professionals (and notably so those on the front line of service delivery).

In essence, the campaign has three key goals at its heart: to empower through engagement and support, create both sustainable and positive change and also promote and foster holistic well-being.

The organisers are committed to building a supportive environment that fosters connections, shares inspiring stories and celebrates each individual’s journey. The vision is to empower each member of the security community taking part through engagement, mentorship and the shared experience of running.

A core desire is to create a community wherein running is recognised not just as a form of physical exercise, but also as the key to unlocking a balanced state of mental and physical health. To this end, the campaign founders and organisers have stated: “We envision a world where every security professional has the tools, motivation and support necessary to embark on a journey towards comprehensive wellness.” That’s nothing if not a hugely laudable – and wholly salient and timely – objective for the 400,000-plus professionals operating in the security sector at present.

Ultimately, the major goal is to instigate lasting and positive change in the lives of today’s dedicated security professionals. The campaign aims to be the catalyst for a lifestyle transformation that prioritises well-being and wherein running becomes a symbol of strength and perseverance and highlights a proactive approach towards tackling myriad mental and physical challenges.

Why running?

 Running is more than just a physical activity. For many, it’s a journey towards inner peace, focus and a rejuvenated spirit. The campaign organisers firmly believe in the strength of community support and, as a result, are inviting all security professionals to lace up their running (or, if they prefer, walking) shoes and join the transformative journey.

By participating in Running on Empty, individuals and security businesses alike can become part of a vibrant community that shares experiences, offers support and advice and celebrates milestones, be they professional or personal in scope. Whether participants are seasoned and regular runners or just starting out, this campaign is about embracing change and focusing on enhanced mental health. ‘Fit in body, fit in mind’ is very much the campaign’s mantra.

Chris Middleton informed Security Matters: “Thinking back to my past fitness achievements during my time in the Armed Forces, I fully understand why I need some form of physical activity in my life. I always feel better when I run or go to the gym, both in mind and in body. I’m sure that I’m not alone in expressing that sentiment. As someone with a highly active mind and a high-achieving mindset. I need to use exercise to keep me balanced. Given the demands of my day job, pro bono activities and the need to always look after my wife and two sons, the hardest part is finding the time or staying motivated. Again, that will be a familiar refrain for many.”

Middleton continued: “The sense of accomplishment and well-being to be derived from exercise is undeniable. That’s one of the main reasons behind my reignited passion for running. I’m now fully committed to not only reintegrating it into my life, but also encouraging others to rediscover – or discover for the first time – the myriad benefits of what is such a hugely fulfilling activity. We can make such a discovery through Running on Empty.”

Community development

Extending the remit of the campaign website, the Running on Empty organisers have already established Facebook and LinkedIn community groups in the social media space. They contain regular posts on running tips, mental health discussions and details of success stories. Simply search for ‘Running on Empty’ on both of these popular platforms.

In a similar vein, there’s regularly updated content on the dedicated TikTok and Instagram platforms. The key aim here is to engage the younger groups within the security cohort and lead them to the main community groups. In parallel, on the Strava platform all those engaged with Running on Empty can track their runs and progress and share encouraging stories.

Campaign co-founder Sarah Hayes is a running enthusiast on a determined mission to ignite the same passion in others. “Across the last couple of years,” affirmed Hayes, “I’ve embraced outdoor running having previously been on the treadmill in the gym. I’m now participating in the local park run every Saturday morning.”

Hayes went on to comment: “The sense of well-being I achieve through regular exercise, even if it means rising early on a dark, bleak and cold morning when it’s raining, is immeasurably rewarding. Living with ADHD, I find that morning runs are crucial for setting a positive tone for the day ahead. My passion now lies in encouraging more individuals in the security sector to join this empowering movement.”

Partnering with the movement

The campaign organisers are firm believers in the strength of collaboration and, as such, are looking to “forge meaningful partnerships” that can actively amplify the mission. That being so, security companies focused on enhancing team wellness and brands offering goods and services that align directly with the campaign’s values and ethos are invited to join this transformative journey.

Security companies that encourage teams to participate in Running on Empty will not only be investing in the physical and mental health of those teams, but also fostering a culture of support and camaraderie. Team morale will be boosted, stress reduced and more balanced and healthy lifestyles promoted.

Whether it’s being able to offer discounts on running gear, health products or services that benefit those taking part in Running on Empty, contributions from brands and retailers can greatly incentivise participation and support for everyone striving towards a successful wellness journey.

As the campaign organisers have collectively observed: “We believe that, through collaboration, we can forge a significant impact and provide comprehensive support for the security community. Join us in making Running on Empty not just an industry campaign, but also a meaningful movement that stands for health, resilience and collective well-being.”

*Individuals and businesses who are ready to embark on this exciting journey can sign up now to play their part in Running on Empty. Visit the campaign website at www.runningonempty.co.uk for all of the necessary details and sign up for the regular Newsletter

“Let’s lace up, run together and thrive!”

#securityindustry #mentalhealth