Mental Health & Welfare
At Skelmersdale Boundary Harriers, running has never just been about pace or PBs. It’s about showing up; for yourself, and for each other.
We believe:
Action over motivation. You don’t need to feel ready to start. Turning up is already half the work.
Belonging at every pace. Speed says nothing about worth. Whatever your fitness level, whatever your background, there’s a place for you here.
No one carries the hard miles alone. Running with others doesn’t fix everything, but it makes the weight easier to carry. That’s what community is for.
Starting again without starting over. Life gets in the way sometimes. Coming back doesn’t mean starting from zero, you bring everything you’ve already learned with you.
Difficult miles don’t erase progress. Some days are harder than others, and that’s okay. Effort looks different day to day, and it all counts.
Since 1898, we’ve been more than a running club, we’re a community built on encouragement, not comparison. Whether you’re chasing a finish line or just chasing a bit of headspace, come find your pace with us.
Mental Health Champions
At Skelmersdale Boundary Harriers, we believe that staying active is just as important for mind as it is for your body. We have designated Mental Health Champions in our club. Their role is to help break down the stigma surrounding mental health, promote well-being, and create a safe, welcoming space for everyone—whether through running or participating in our Walk & Talk.
Our Champions are friendly, approachable, and always available for a confidential chat. While they are not medical professionals, they offer a non-judgmental listening ear and can signpost you to professional services if you ever need it. Feel free to catch one of our Champions on club night or reach out to them directly.
Nikki Carney
Mental Health Champion
Sally Adams
Mental Health Champion
Simon Jones
Mental Health Champion
Jane Woodburn
Mental Health Champion
Kirsty Rigby
Mental Health Champion
Katrina Howarth
Mental Health Champion
Welfare and Safeguarding
Skelmersdale Boundary Harriers are committed to the welfare and safety of all our members, with particular care toward those who may be vulnerable.
The Club has two Welfare Officers, Karolina Faithful and Peter Carney who ensure that United Kingdom Athletics (UKA) and England Athletics (EA) policies are observed. Each has attended UKA/EA Safeguarding Training and has a current DBS Certificate.
The club formally adopted the revised UKA & EA policies in April 2023. The UKA policies for the protection of vulnerable adults can be accessed on the UKA web site
Advice on safeguarding, welfare and DBS procedures can be sought from the Welfare Officers who can be contacted on email welfare@skelmersdaleboundaryharriers.com
Alternatively you can contact individual officers on :
Karolina Faithfull
Lead Welfare Officer
Peter Carney
Lead Welfare Officer
If you would like to message our welfare team directly, please use the form below.
Submitted information will only be received by the welfare team and will remain secure in line with England Athletics best practice