Employee running group set up to raise money for charity

Employees at a Thermo Fisher Scientific site in Loughborough are lacing up their running shoes as part of a new running group which will help raise funds for the Save the Children charity.

The Thermo Fisher Scientific running club, a weekly employee running program, was established to encourage a healthy lifestyle and camaraderie while also supporting a worthy cause and is part of Run England.

The group was founded by Group Leader and Telecommunications Executive Jo Robinson, an avid runner herself. Jo recognized the potential to start a running group at work after having conversations with several colleagues who were interested in running but did not feel confident enough to join a local athletics club.

She said: "It's easier to run with a group, as you can help support and motivate each other."

The group, which started with just four employees on the first run in June, now has more than 10 participants each week and meets every Tuesday after work to run together. Participants make a £2 donation each week and all donations go directly to Save the Children. The group is tracking donations through their Website and generated £92 in the first four weeks.

Jo started the group with the help of John Skevington from the Leicestershire Athletics Club Network, who is now a Run England Activator for Leicestershire.

John said: "The group at Thermo Fisher Scientific is one of the first corporate groups set up and is an ideal example of how a company can promote fitness and a healthy lifestyle through running."

The group meets every Tuesday and runs for about 30 minutes. All abilities are welcome. Members new to running are supported and encouraged but not pushed beyond their capabilities.

Eve Savage, e-Commerce Marketing Manager at Thermo Fisher, said: "I was a little apprehensive at first, as I run two-three times a week on the treadmill but hadn’t really tried running outdoors.

"I didn’t need to worry. The time seems to pass more quickly, the scenery and fresh air is invigorating and the chat and encouragement – between breaths – keeps you motivated and makes it fun. There’s something for everyone regardless of ability or experience."

If you would like to learn more about setting up a running group in the Leicestershire area, contact John Skevington on john.skevington@hotmail.com or 07817 693777. If you don't live in Leicestershire but would like more information on setting up your own group, click HERE.