Jacob Portsmouth, who has worked for Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) for four years, is running the 26.2 mile course on 13 April for Mental Health UK.
Jacob first joined the mental health and community Trust as an activity coordinator at Rawreth Court, one of the EPUT’s care homes in Rayleigh, before moving to the Welfare team at Rochford Hospital. The team support patients with their finances, pension and benefit payments, and keeping their belongings safe while they receive care in the hospital’s mental health and older people inpatient wards.
Jacob has previously completed the Southend half marathon, Southend 10K and Benfleet 15, and is now looking forward to raising vital funds for Mental Health UK by taking part in his first marathon. Mental Health UK works across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to support people affected by mental health problems.
Jacob said: “I love running, it’s become such a big part of my life in the past few years, not just for the physical benefits but also for the wonders it does for my state of mind and mental wellbeing. If I can make the smallest contribution to those that need it the most, I can’t wait to get on that start line.
“I am currently running at least three times a week, sometimes four if I can squeeze my Saturday parkrun in. I run varying distances but try to save my biggest run for the weekends when I have more time. I have been averaging about 10 miles a week so there is still lots to be done but I am really looking forward to it.
“I am doing the marathon alone, I do have family and friends who want to come out and support, although I am pretty sure they are only doing that for the croissants and wine!”
Jacob is hoping to raise more than £750 for the Mental Health UK charity. Anyone who would like to help Jacob reach his target can donate via his Mental Health UK fundraising webpage.