Pumpkin Carving for Mental Health

This October, carve a pumpkin and help to raise awareness for mental health and wellbeing. FirstLight Trust, a charity doing so much to support Veterans, is hosting a pumpkin carving competition to coincide with their Stress Down Day campaign which aims to raise funds for Veterans of the Emergency Services and Armed Forces.

The current Covid-19 pandemic has left the Emergency Services overwhelmed and overworked and many people facing isolation and loneliness which can be extremely harmful for our mental health. Stress Down Day is a bi-annual event taking place on the Friday before the clocks go forward and back, with the next being on Friday 23rd October 2020. The campaign promotes the importance of taking moments out of our days to de-stress and relax and emphasizes the difference small actions can make to our mental health.

By taking part in the competition you will help to spread awareness about the importance of mental health whilst supporting FirstLight Trust’s vital work. An Emergency Service Veteran supported by FirstLight Trust states that, “In these circumstances things don’t just get better overnight, it could take some time. The charity remains a safe network of experienced, friendly, knowledgeable, caring and supportive people who I will remain in contact with as long as required and even beyond”. 

Stress Down Day urges participants de-stress which can be as simple as a stretch and yawn or reading a book. This year, the campaign is introducing a seasonal competition and encouraging entries.

Founding Trustee of FirstLight Trust, Dorinda Wolfe Murray says, “Stressing down does not have to be well, stressful, and enjoying something creative is not only great fun but gives a sense of achievement.  Families can enjoy this competition as well – and don’t forget the pumpkin flesh can be used to make a fabulous pie or cake”. 

Enter your pumpkin design into either the child or adult Stress Down Day Pumpkin Carving Competition for a chance to support Veterans and win some fantastic goodies! 

TO ENTER please follow these simple instructions: 

1. Carve a pumpkin with any design you choose (extra points for attempting the Stress Down Day logo!) 

2. Take a clear photo of your carved pumpkin and send it to office@firstlighttrust.co.uk by Thursday 29th October 2020 with your name, contact number and stating whether it’s an adult or child entry. 

3. Watch out for the winner to be revealed on social media on Friday 30th October 2020.