Throughout May, Olio users will have the option to donate to the Mental Health Foundation after collecting or sharing an item in the app. Because even sharing what you no longer need, can help make a big difference.
You might wonder – what’s that got to do with mental health?
Well, a lot, actually.
Money’s harder to manage if you have a mental health problem. And being in debt makes it harder to look after your mental health.
That’s why it can feel really difficult to get out of a debt – mental health cycle.
Thankfully, if this is something you recognise, there are organisations out there ready to help you. Check out these organisations or our website for more help and support.
People in Edinburgh are encouraged to swap their slippers for their trainers this February and take part in Jog 28, a month-long challenge designed to boost physical health, mental wellbeing, and support vital mental health work.
Jog 28 runs throughout February and invites participants to complete 28 miles over 28 days. The challenge is free to join and open to all ages and abilities. Entrants are encouraged to register soon with the start of challenge just days away.
Participants can jog, walk, or run their miles at their own pace, making it an easy way to stay active and connected.
Fiona Halton, Head of Fundraising at Mental Health Foundation, said:“Whether you want to keep up the momentum of a great start to 2026, or like many of us, are getting through the gruelling first weeks of January and are primed to get up and moving; the Mental Health Foundation has got you covered with Jog 28, a challenge fundraiser that supports not just your physical health and mental wellbeing, but the vital work of the charity.
“We are inviting the people of Edinburgh to join us on Jog 28. This challenge is about turning up for yourselves; by moving, taking in your surroundings and taking care of your physical health, which will in turn boost your mental wellbeing.
Fiona adds: “Things are always easier when shared, and we know connection is key for good mental health.
“Jog 28 is a perfect opportunity to step out with a friend and catch up whilst improving your wellbeing. Plus, we know that it’s harder to talk past jogging pace – so keep it steady, and you’ll be able to jog and have a natter!
“Everyone deserves good mental health and every step you on take this challenge will help us build a society where everyone can thrive.
“We are not far away from February and the start of the challenge, so make sure you register in time to take part!”
Fundraising Target: Whatever you can raise – every contribution matters
There’s no registration fee, and participants can sign up at any time. Register now and receive a free Mental Health Foundation T-shirt (while stocks last). Anyone who raises at least £30 will get a free beanie.
Why take part in Jog 28?
Movement matters: Regular physical activity can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy levels.
Connecting with nature: Spending time outdoors, even in colder months, helps us feel grounded and more present.
Raise vital funds: Support good mental health for all and our work across the UK
Social connection: Walking with friends, family, or colleagues can strengthen relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.
Kindness in action: Taking on a challenge to support others is a meaningful act of compassion, and kindness is proven to benefit our own mental health too.
#BlueMonday is widely recognised as “the most depressing day of the year”. But the fact is, it’s just a myth. We all experience highs and lows in our mental health throughout the year, not just on a random Monday in January.
For more about the Blue Monday myth and some of our tips on taking care of your mental health, check out our blog: https://shorturl.at/8lDnn
Despite being called the “most wonderful time of the year”, for so many of us, the festive season doesn’t always bring joy.
In our latest blog, Aaron explores his own difficulties with Christmas as well as the challenges many of us face during the festive season and the steps we can take to help protect our mental health during this time.
Christmas is often portrayed as a season of wall-to-wall joy and celebration. But for those of us who have lost loved ones, this season can sometimes feel heavy and complicated.
Our CEO Mark reflects on his own journey with grief at this time of year and offers tips for those who may be struggling during the holidays.
New research has revealed one in two people (56 per cent) living in Edinburgh have experienced feelings of loneliness at Christmas, with almost one in five (18 per cent) saying they expect to feel lonelier this year than they did last Christmas.
The research, conducted by Fort Kinnaird in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation, also found that more than half (53 per cent) of people in Edinburgh said they wouldn’t know where to turn for help when struggling with loneliness or isolation.
Worryingly, almost half (49 per cent) also said they don’t feel comfortable confiding in someone they trust about how they feel – a tendency that increases with age.
In response, Fort Kinnaird has teamed up with Edinburgh-based charities Cyrenians and Edinburgh Young Carers to help raise awareness of the support they can provide for vulnerable groups experiencing feelings of loneliness, including people who are homeless and young carers.
Cyrenians works to tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness, including social isolation, by offering prevention, early-intervention and supported-housing services.
Meanwhile, Edinburgh Young Carers provides respite and support to young people who care for somebody at home. They aim to improve the lives and wellbeing of young carers by raising awareness, offering emotional and practical support and by giving each young person the opportunity to take a break from their caring role which can be very isolating.
Fort Kinnaird will be donating advertising space to both of the local charities, helping to signpost the vital support for those who need it most, while also encouraging donations. Adverts promoting the charities will feature across its digital screens, on posters and bathroom mirror vinyls, as well as on social media and the centre’s website during the festive period.
Later this month, the centre will also bring back its popular Letters of Hope initiative for the second year, where shoppers are encouraged to share messages of support that will once again be distributed by Cyrenians to vulnerable members of the community, helping to combat social isolation over the festive period.
Shoppers will also be able to make a voluntary donation to Cyrenians through a donation point located next to the ‘Letters of Hope’ Mailbox.
To support young people experiencing loneliness, the centre will also be hosting digital workshops run by animation and film makers D Fie Foe, in partnership with Edinburgh Young Carers. The workshops will aim to provide young people with useful skills in digital filmmaking, whilst using creativity as a platform to connect and collaborate with others.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said:“The festive period is a truly special time for us at Fort Kinnaird, bringing people from across the community together to enjoy our Christmas markets and festive activities, but sadly we know that it can be a lonelier time for some.
“Having worked closely with Cyrenians over the past year, we’re acutely aware of the impact that social isolation and loneliness can have and wanted to build on our partnership to increase our support for those in need this Christmas.
“We’re proud to be partnering Cyrenians and Edinburgh Young Carers to raise awareness of the local support available, whilst creating opportunities for meaningful moments of connection this Christmas.
“We look forward to seeing the messages of festive joy shared by our visitors through Letters of Hope, whilst raising valuable donations for Cyrenians.”
Alexa Knight, Director of Policy and Influence for the Mental Health Foundation, said: “We can all feel lonely at times, but when loneliness lasts for a long period, it can have a profound impact on our mental health.
“At Christmas, this can feel even harder because the portrayal of the season as full of joy and togetherness can deepen feelings of isolation if we are lonely.
“Working with Fort Kinnaird allows us to shine a light on an issue that is often hidden, encourage open conversations, and connect people with the support and understanding they need this Christmas and beyond.
“It’s important to note that loneliness isn’t something individuals should have to fix alone; we all have a role to play. Taking time to check in with people around us, offering a listening ear, or creating spaces where others feel welcome can make a real difference.”
The research also revealed that whilst loneliness is often associated with older generations, younger people are increasingly struggling too, with more than a third (34 per cent) of 18–24-year-olds anticipating greater feelings of loneliness this year.
Social media also emerged as a key influence, with almost a quarter (24 per cent) of people saying that online platforms make them feel more alone at Christmas, whilst financial pressures (43 per cent), being physically distant from family and friends (29 per cent) and the recent loss of a loved one (27 per cent) and were the key reasons behind feelings of disconnection.
Margaret Murphy, Chief Executive at Edinburgh Young Carers,said:“Edinburgh Young Carers are delighted to be working with Fort Kinnaird on this campaign in the run up to the festive period.
“Young carers take on incredible responsibilities for their loved ones throughout the year, and Christmas can often be an isolating and difficult time.
We hope this campaign will highlight the support that young car”ers and young adult carers have a right to access – including a break from caring and a chance to have fun and spend time with friends.”
Throughout the festive period, Fort Kinnaird will also be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food, artisan gifts, fairground rides and spectacular circus shows for all to enjoy.
