\n Kirsty Barton, from Newton Mearns, will spend five days in the Arctic Circle this March to raise money for SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health).\n<\/p>\n
\n The Arctic Challenge will see her travel to Finland from March 4 to 8, where she will cross-country ski, build igloos and trek across frozen landscapes in sub-zero conditions.\n<\/p>\n
\n Kirsty said: \u201cThis isn\u2019t an average office away day.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cIt\u2019s a real test of endurance, resilience and grit.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n The challenge is part of a wider campaign through Kirsty’s employer, Virgin Money, which is currently partnered with SAMH.\n<\/p>\n
\n However, it’s also very personal to Kirsty, both as a parent and as someone who has seen the value of mental health support first-hand.\n<\/p>\n
\n Kirsty said: \u201cI\u2019m doing this because mental health doesn\u2019t discriminate.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cIt affects every family, every workplace and every friendship.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cBehind many smiles, there\u2019s a silent struggle, and for many people, charities like SAMH are a lifeline.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cLike many people, I\u2019m not always okay.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cI\u2019m lucky to have family and friends who support me when things feel heavy \u2014 not everyone has that.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cSAMH helps people feel less alone and access support when they need it most.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n Through her Arctic challenge, Kirsty is aiming to raise \u00a33700 to support SAMH.\n<\/p>\n