The Wellness Running Club, founded by Run2Happiness with support from SUIT and Recovery Near You, holds weekly sessions at West Park in Wolverhampton, offering a welcoming environment for people of all abilities to walk, run, and connect while improving physical and mental wellbeing. The initiative has become particularly valuable for individuals recovering from addiction and mental health issues, creating opportunities for healthier lifestyles.
Origins and Philosophy
SUIT's Warren Sutherland, an ex-service user, explained that the idea began through conversations about supporting people in recovery. "We thought it'd be a good idea to get our clients to just walk around the park," he said. "Rehab is all about working on the mind, but there's so many different aspects to the mind. We get people to walk and talk and they don't realise it, but they are working on their recovery just by walking around and talking to each other."
The natural environment of West Park plays a key role. "Look at the environment. It's absolutely beautiful," Warren added. "Subliminally, you are giving the message that you can have fun, you can have conversations without any form of chemical, and enjoy it and meet new people."
Participant Stories
One participant initially had no interest in running when introduced through a recovery programme. "When John said, 'Do you fancy coming for a run?' I was like 'No!'" she laughed. But after starting with gentle walks, her confidence grew. "It's really enjoyable, and I've found that's pushed me now to do more walking. I walk a lot now, I very rarely drive my car."
Volunteer Sam praised Run2Happiness founder John Dixon's encouragement. "He believes in you before you do," Sam said. "You'll sit there and say, 'I can't do that,' and he's like, 'You can.' He wants you to believe that the impossible isn't impossible."
Simple Approach
John Dixon's philosophy is to take things one step at a time. "My main thing when it comes to running is always 'slow down'," he explained. "If you can't run a mile, just run from here to that bench. Then walk to the next bench and run to the next bench."
Community Impact
Run2Happiness is also supporting the Sport for Change Wolverhampton campaign, backed by the University of Wolverhampton and Wolves Foundation. Co-ordinated by ConnectSport CIC, the campaign sees local students promoting the health and social benefits of community sport projects. More than 50 projects are expected to join by the end of 2026.
John noted: "For me, Sport for Change Wolverhampton has helped me get my word out. We're like a collective of people who want to change the world. Now we've got more chance because of Sport for Change Wolverhampton."
Through every walk, jog, and conversation, the Wellness Running Club is proving that positive change often starts with a single step.
