A free community initiative aimed at getting people active every day to support their mental health is being supported by a Dorset charity.

Now in its second year, Mind's month-long, national Red January campaign will see thousands of people kick-starting 2019 in the most positive way by walking, swimming, running or cycling while raising awareness and support for mental health during a characteristically tough month.

Red is founded on research that shows physical activity can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing and reduce symptoms of mental illness such as depression and anxiety. In the post Red January 2018 survey, 87 per cent of participants reported feeling significantly better physically and mentally, after getting active every day.

The event also aims to raise money for Dorset Mind, supporting its vital work in the community, supporting mental health services and ensuring everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets the help they deserve.

Dorset Mind’s chief executive Marianne Storey said: “Last year several of our staff, including me, took part in the challenge and we found from experience that exercise really does boost your mental wellbeing. You gain a real sense of achievement and camaraderie from taking part in the national project alongside Mind Charity, and the online support is phenomenal.

"The best thing is that everyone benefits. You set your own challenge, whether it be simply to do five minutes walking, swimming or cycling a set distance. It means that you’re in control and can tailor your goal to your ability.”

Register to take part in Red January at dorsetmind.uk/red-january-2019-registration, or visit dorsetmind.uk to find out more about the charity.