Ex-Cop Tackles Extreme Challenges for Mental Health

A former Northumbria police officer, John Loraine, is participating in a series of demanding physical challenges to support a mental health charity. Loraine, who is now training to be a Metro driver, found himself profoundly affected by aspects of his previous career. He was referred to Climbing Out, a charity assisting individuals with trauma and life-changing injuries, which he credits with saving him.

Currently 37 years old and residing in Gosforth, Newcastle, Loraine is engaged in six endurance events. These challenges often involve carrying significant weight, symbolizing the motto that "whatever weight we carry we do not have to carry it alone." He has already completed the 76-mile Isle of Arran Expedition and the Great North 10K with a weighted vest.

Over the next 30 days, Loraine is set to tackle the 13-mile MacMillan Mighty Hike with a 15kg vest, the 10-mile Para's 10 Tab with a 16kg backpack, and the 52-mile Longmynd Hike in Shropshire. He will also participate in the Great North Run while wearing his volunteer special constable uniform.

Loraine's journey to overcoming mental health struggles was facilitated by Climbing Out, following a referral from Northumbria Police occupational health. He emphasizes that the charity's support was instrumental in his recovery. Fitting his training around his new career, Loraine adheres to the mantra of completion over competition, drawing parallels to the process of overcoming mental health challenges.