Tomorrow a group of St Mungo’s staff, supporters, volunteers and clients are hiking up Ben Nevis. We spoke to Naz, who has been living in St Mungo’s accommodation for four years. He tells us why he wanted to climb Ben Nevis.
What made you want to climb Ben Nevis?
My support worker asked if I wanted to climb Ben Nevis, he said it was brilliant so I agreed to do it.
I think the idea behind it is amazing. It is a big achievement, climbing a mountain.
Hiking is something that people do as a kid and a lot of people here have missed experiencing in their younger lives due to different circumstances. It is what people need for their morale.
I will remember it forever as I have never climbed a mountain before.
Do you think it will help your recovery?
It already has, even during the training walks I feel better.
Why did you want to do it?
For one, it is a change of environment. Secondly, it makes you feel like you are actually doing something for St Mungo’s instead of just using it as a housing association. It is rebuilding your life, and now I have recovered I want to take every step to rebuild my life.
I also want to network as I like the team at St Mungo’s. I want to get into the sector. I have helped myself but I don’t really feel like I have achieved much until I help other people.
What are you looking forward to at Ben Nevis?
The sense of achievement and the need for encouragement of other people. I want to help people during the climb, even if it’s just by talking to them.
I also look forward to the effect of it after; being able to say that I have climbed a mountain with St Mungo’s.
I haven’t really been conscious about things St Mungo’s do. I have been distracted by my lifestyle. When you change your life, you want to meet new people. St Mungo’s slogan is rebuilding lives, and I am one of those people who have.
In September to mark our 50th year 50 clients, staff members and volunteers join staff from our sponsor Tokio Marine to take on the highest peak in Britain. Find out more about our Ben Nevis hiking challenge.