A Highland mental health charity has been shortlisted for an award recognising its commitment to reducing isolation and depression.
Clarity Walk, founded by Matt Wallace, is based in Inverness and has the simple concept of getting people back into nature with clarity walks.
Since the charity started back in August 2019, it has helped more than 8,000 Highland residents reconnect with nature and themselves.
The mission is to help people suffering from mental health issues such as depression and isolation, further exacerbated by the pandemic.
Walking in nature also allows participants to clean up rubbish from nature spots along the way, with over 4,600 litres of rubbish collected so far.
‘Make sure no one has to walk alone.’
The charity has also worked with 12 schools and over 200 children, including children with additional support needs and/or trauma backgrounds.
For their work, Clarity Walk has been shortlisted for the very first Community Award issued by Scottish Edge worth £20,000.
Scottish Edge is a competition that supports Scotland’s up-and-coming and innovative businesses.
The funding award would go to transforming Clarity Walk from a grant-relying enterprise into a revenue-generating business, with a larger scope to help those in need.
Charity founder Mr Wallace recently released his first book, My Walk to Clarity, on his life and journey providing insight for others suffering mentally.
He believes staying connected with people, being able to prioritise yourself, taking accountability and asking for help are fundamentals to improve your mental health.
The Community Award is voted on by the public and Clarity Walk faces competition from two other enterprises.
Mr Wallace said: “It feels great to be recognised for the support we provide the community.
“Clarity Walk is here to support people through the energy crisis as we know many will struggle, and the £20,000 will help us be more sustainable, support more people and make sure no one has to walk alone with the support we can provide.”
To vote, visit https://www.scottishedge.com/community-edge
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