An Intro to the HPH Welfare Team

Hello and welcome to our introduction of your new HPH welfare team. I’ve included a bit about all of us below but also wanted to raise awareness of the work we will be doing. We’re always here if you need us!

What is the role of a welfare officer?

Welfare officers are designated individuals within the club who have the responsibility to manage and report any welfare concerns and ensure everyone has a safe and positive experience at HPH. We are here if you just want a friendly ear to chat to or if you need any help or have a concern.

How can I get in touch/raise a concern with you?

We all regularly attend our Tuesday night run clubs, so you can speak to us directly.

Or you can always email in to our welfare email at:

welfare@hydeparkharriers.co.uk

Is it anonymous?

We will do our best to maintain anonymity where appropriate and possible, unless in circumstances where there is a welfare concern.

Who are we?

Bethany Chambers

I have been a member of HPH for nearly 2 years and have done a fair bit of running before that too! I’m a bit running crazy and like to get out nearly every day (when I can!) I enjoy a good challenge and have done Leeds half several times and a marathon before! Outside of running I love to bake-mostly things for when I get back from a run (life’s all about balance!) and can often be found handing out fresh baked goods-especially at PECO!

After suffering a significant injury and set backs myself, I wanted to be there for others like the club was for me and decided to take on the role of Welfare officer to provide support and an open ear for anyone who wants to chat! Whether you’re entirely new to running or a seasoned professional, I’m here to support everyone in their journey.

Clare Evans

I have been a member of HPH since 2014(!) and Membership Secretary since 2019. Through those 11 years, I have seen the club grow from perhaps 150 members to roughly 250 members, but the core of the club has roughly remained the same. Where this really came to light was during Covid, where despite not being able to run together or from the Edge for 18 months, the club really embraced online activities, virtual challenges, meeting in small groups (when allowed) and checking in on each other.

I have been Welfare Office alongside Curtis Ledger for roughly 2 years and like to think I provide a friendly face, who wants to help others. I have often felt better myself on return from a run, even if it’s just a chatty run with friends, but am also happy to meet for a coffee or a chat if you have anything to share. 

Outside of running, I love travelling (although I often use running as a way to get my bearings in a new city) and experiencing new cultures and sights. 

Lucy Rider

As one of Hyde Park Harriers’ Welfare Officers, I’m committed to ensuring our club remains a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all members regardless of the number of sessions they attend or which group they might choose to run in. My role involves addressing any concerns members may have, supporting those who need assistance, and helping maintain the friendly and caring community that makes HPH so special.

My own journey with HPH began in 2015 when I was struggling with confidence after a difficult experience when I was mugged in 2013. From my very first session HPH welcomed me with open arms, and I’ve never had to run alone since and I’ve made some amazing friends through running! This personal experience of how transformative a supportive running environment can be drives my passion for welfare work.

Through leading our monthly #RunAndTalk sessions, I’ve seen firsthand how running can be a powerful tool for mental health and wellbeing. These sessions create space for “supportive and social activity” that reaches people who might not otherwise access it, embodying the inclusive spirit I want to maintain across all our club activities.

Whether you’re a newcomer finding or rediscovering your confidence in running or an experienced member facing challenges, I believe in creating “a friendly and safe way to run” for everyone. 

My door is always open to any member who needs support, guidance, or simply someone to talk to. Please don’t hesitate to reach out via welfare@hydeparkharriers.co.uk – all communications are treated with complete confidentiality.

Together, we can ensure Hyde Park Harriers remains not just the friendliest running club in Leeds, but also the safest and most inclusive.

Don’t forget, anyone can reach out at any time and we will always do our best to help and support. 🔴🔴⚪️🔴