The Blue Light Symphony Orchestra, the UK’s only orchestra for all emergency services personnel, is calling on the public to use their daily lockdown exercise time to show their support for the emergency services by completing the 999Run.
According to the charity, which uses music and music therapy to help improve the mental wellbeing of police, fire and ambulance staff, COVID-19 has seen an exacerbation of the already critical state of mental health among blue light workers.
By completing the 999Run and raising money, the public can support the charity to address the issues around trauma, PTSD, chronic stress, and anxiety among 999 emergency service staff.
Between 18-26th July 2020 participants of all fitness levels should run, walk, or even skip one of three 999 themed distances – 9.99 km, 999 m or 999 steps.
The charity run is organised by Sebastian Valentine, a detective constable in the Surrey Police Safeguarding Investigation Unit based in Guildford. He investigates child abuse, domestic abuse as well as ‘honour-based abuse’ and harmful traditional practices. He is also a hostage and crisis negotiator.
Here he speaks to NR Times about the run and the importance of music therapy.
