Sport in Mind has helped 60,000 people beat loneliness

Three UK groups are treating exercise as a cure for loneliness, and the numbers suggest it works. Sport in Mind, founded in 2010, has now supported more than 60,000 people experiencing mental health problems, running free sessions in everything from football to gardening. "Sport in Mind began with one simple intention: to help a friend who was unwell," said founder and CEO Neil Harris. The charity works with the NHS to build spaces where sport is a route back to routine rather than a competition. The Bluetits Chill Swimmers started in Wales and grew into a global network of people who meet outdoors to swim, dip and talk. GoodGym sends members running or cycling to help older neighbours and local projects, whether clearing a garden or sorting food bank donations. "The benefits go both ways," said head of operations Ed Field. People turn up for the exercise. They stay for the company.