Written by Erin Macguire

A FAIFLEY woman has embarked on a 96-mile challenge to raise money for a mental health charity.

Kayleigh Morrison, 30, is completing a virtual West Highland Way walk in aid of the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).

Due to Covid restrictions, Kayleigh is covering the miles locally, with the support of her fiancée, Rebecca Cowan.

Her initial fundraising target of £100 has already been met, with her Just Giving page sitting at just over £300.

Kayleigh said: “I heard a radio advert about a walk happening to raise money for a mental health charity, but it was only England and Wales so I decided to find a Scottish one.

“I hope to raise awareness for mental health as some people look okay on the outside, but inside they are fighting a battle and are too scared to reach out for help.

“I think it’s important as a lot of people are being left alone to shield or have lost their jobs, and I think that we’ll be in a mental health crisis at the end of the pandemic.”

After struggling with her own mental health, Kayleigh undertook the challenge in the hope it would set her up for a better year.

She believes the walks have benefitted her own mental health and encourages others to do the same.

She said: “I’ve found it helps even though I’m still not comfortable with the walking etiquette where people stop to say “hello”, but that’s just down to my own shyness.

“I’d recommend people find something they like and try make time each day to do whatever it is they enjoy.”

Kayleigh hopes her fundraiser can encourage people struggling with their own mental health to seek support.

She added: “There’s always someone who will listen or help - just being honest with someone can help.”