NC Group run for Quinn’s Retreat
Darren Grainger, John Bayne and Annemarie Mathias all ran the Great North Run raising valuable funds for Quinn’s retreat.
A team of employees from NC Group laced up their running shoes this past weekend to participate in the Great North Run, the world’s largest half-marathon, in support of Quinn’s Retreat—a charity that provides respite for individuals and families affected by suicide and mental health challenges.
Driven by a shared passion for raising awareness about mental health, the NC Group team, consisting of three runners, tackled the iconic 13.1-mile course from Newcastle to South Shields. The team raised over £2,000 for Quinn’s Retreat, a cause close to their hearts.
Quinn’s Retreat, founded by the family of Quinn and Dyllon, was established in memory of their daughter, Quinn, who tragically passed away after a battle with mental health. The charity offers free breaks for those who are struggling with grief, mental health challenges, or have been affected by suicide, giving them a place to recharge and seek solace in a peaceful setting.
Lee Childs, co CEO of NC Group, spoke about the significance of supporting the charity:
“Our team running the Great North Run for Quinn’s Retreat is an important way for us to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. We are incredibly proud of our staff who have shown such commitment to this cause, helping to provide respite for those who need it most.”
The NC Group runners were cheered on by friends, family, and colleagues as they joined 60,000 other participants in this iconic event. The course, famous for its incredible atmosphere and support from spectators, saw the team push through both physical and emotional challenges to complete the race.
A Cause Close to Home
For many of the runners, supporting Quinn’s Retreat was a deeply personal cause. Darren Grainger, a participant from NC Group, reflected on their experience:
“Running the Great North Run for Quinn’s Retreat has been an incredibly meaningful journey. We know that mental health struggles affect so many people, including some within our own team. This run was about more than crossing the finish line—it was about spreading hope and showing that support is available.”
Quinn’s Retreat relies on donations to continue providing free, much-needed retreats to individuals and families affected by suicide. The funds raised by the NC Group team will directly support the charity’s work, helping more people find peace and healing in difficult times.
Mental Health at the Heart of NC Group’s Mission
As an organization committed to improving lives through education, training, and support, NC Group has long recognized the importance of mental well-being, both for its learners and employees. The decision to support Quinn’s Retreat aligns with the group’s wider focus on holistic support, recognizing that mental health plays a crucial role in personal and professional development.
NC Group has introduced several mental health initiatives within its own workforce, including mental health awareness training and access to professional support services. By participating in the Great North Run for Quinn’s Retreat, the organization aims to extend its commitment to mental health beyond its operations and into the community.
Looking Ahead
The success of NC Group’s participation in the Great North Run has inspired both the runners and the wider company to continue their support for Quinn’s Retreat and mental health causes. Plans are already underway to organize future fundraising activities, with hopes of further raising awareness and providing critical support for those impacted by suicide and mental health struggles.
The Great North Run may have ended, but NC Group’s commitment to supporting Quinn’s Retreat and mental health awareness will carry on long into the future.
To find out more and to support the excellent work being done at Quinn’s Retreat, please visit:
