Six Midlothian mums take on the Kelpies Challenge for Children First

Margaretrose Graham Children First peer support worker, Laura Stacey, Donna Scott, Andrea Kerr, Rachel Watson, Georgina Hume, Lyndsay Gray, and Charles Graham Children First peer support worker.

Six mums from the Midlothian area are climbing the Kelpies to raise funds for Scotland’s national children’s charity.

The brave mums are taking on the challenge of a lifetime, having had first-hand experience of the life-changing difference the charity can make to children and their families.

Children First provides practical, emotional and financial support to thousands of children and families across Scotland through its national support line and in their homes, schools and communities.

The Children First Midlothian support group, which helps families move on together from a range of challenges has been a “lifeline” for the mums and their families.

The group focuses on wellbeing activities and the power of community support to help parents having a tough time to overcome challenges like isolation, make friends and gain confidence.

Rachel, who used to come to the group with her mum before she sadly passed away last year has recently returned for support. Now she is excited to take on the amazing Kelpies Challenge with her friends and Charles Graham, a Children First support worker.

Rachel said: “The group has been a lifeline to us and helps me get out of the house.”

Donna shared: "We love the group - it means the world to me and to all of us. It's amazing and so are the Children First team who run it."

Georgina says: “Children First means a lot to me and my kids. This group has been great for me, it’s encouraged me to get out and about and the ladies have been such a great support.”

Lyndsay added: "When I think about climbing the Kelpies I get nervous but then I remind myself that it can't be worse than all I've been through!"

Laura shared: “I enjoy coming to the group to get connection with other women who understand.” 

Margaretrose Graham from Children First who runs the group with colleague Charles shared: “I used to attend a support group like this a few years ago and now I’m running this one in Midlothian.

“I’ve seen the group thrive through thick and thin, and it has been an incredible support to so many families over the years. At Children First we believe when parents do well so do children and that’s why we run support groups like this one.

“When life is tough and you are feeling isolated and alone, being supported by people in your local community can really make all the difference. This group has helped so many parents and carers to build their confidence and emotional wellbeing so that they and their families can thrive.

“If you can, please support Children First to help us give children and families across Scotland a brighter future.”

Laura, Donna, Andrea and Lyndsay have also been training hard in preparation for the Edinburgh Marathon Relay Race this weekend to boost funds further for Children First.

To sponsor these brave mums and their fantastic fundraising efforts to help protect Scotland’s children, please donate here: Laura Stacey is fundraising for Children First

If you’re interested in conquering the world’s largest equine sculptures, there are still limited places available!

You can sign up here and find out more about how to get involved in Children First’s fundraising events here: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/events or call 0345 10 80 111.