How young Chesterfield woman has beaten her lockdown anxiety fears

Charlotte Shaw, 21, works as a carer at Chatsworth Lodge care home and has seen at first hand the devastating impact of coronavirus on residents.

She also suffers from anxiety and admits that the current uncertain times have made the situation worse – especially as she lives alone.

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So Charlotte, who lives in Brampton, decided to throw herself into an exercise challenge while also raising money for residents to enjoy activities at the care home.

Charlotte has now raised £1,157 after running three miles along Chatsworth Road, where the home is based, in a different fancy dress costume every day for a week.

“It was actually quite difficult for me as my self confidence can be very debilitating,” Charlotte said.

“One day my mum suggested why not put the running into something positive. So I decided to start a JustGiving fundraiser to purchase a karaoke machine for the residents to keep activities fun and lively.

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“I cannot believe the response I got from this, so overwhelming! Not only did we achieve a target of £300 but we absolutely smashed it and raised over £1,000.

“A huge huge thank you to all the staff at the home, my friends and family who have shown nothing but non-stop support.

“You’ve lifted my spirits so much when I needed it the most, and I hope I lifted other people’s spirits too.”

Charlotte now hopes other people battling mental health problems can create something positive from the difficult situations created by the pandemic.

“I've proved to myself I can actually start something and finish it if I put my mind and determination to it, which is a huge confidence boost.

“These times are so difficult we all need something to keep us active, to keep a healthy mind and body.

“I hope my story shows to others that things are possible while fighting mental illnesses. We can’t let mental illnesses define who we are, we are so much more and can do so much more than our minds lead us to believe.”

Visit Charlotte's JustGiving page to donate.