Optical teams raise mental health awareness

Over 50 people from Hakim Group headquarters walked for two hours to highlight Mental Health Awareness Week in May.

The team covered around five miles across Lancashire’s steep and rocky terrain to reach the historical monument, Darwen Tower. People at Hakim Group HQ, which represents independent opticians across the UK and Republic of Ireland, have carried out several walks to take a wellness break and enjoy nature. 

The firm raises funds for Shine Coaching, which offers support to men who are dealing with stress, anger and conflict in their daily lives. Shine founder Lian Frankland said: “When it comes to mental health, nature and exercise can be excellent healers. It provides a space that is calming as well as giving us a break from the stress and worries of everyday life.

 “This can be particularly useful for those struggling with anxiety but taking time to recuperate and immersing yourself in nature is important for everybody’s mental health and wellbeing.”

 Nick Lowe, Hakim Group’s head of communication, said: “It’s always great to see the team join together, especially for such a worthy cause.

“We have such a beautiful landscape right on our doorstep and it never fails to help bring people together and lift everyone’s spirits. Mental health is so important and often gets overlooked so we’re really grateful for any impact we can make by taking steps in the right direction to ensure everyone in our local community is supported and cared for”

If you would like to support Shine, donate here