Walking, talking and taking time together on our wellbeing day

Once a year, our small but mighty team of eleven comes together for something we all value, our wellbeing day. The team is spread across the region, so we don’t often get the chance to pause as a group, step away from our screens, and simply be together. This day gives us that space and reminds us why looking after ourselves and each other matters.

This year, the sun was shining as we set off on a 5-mile walk along the coastal path of East Yorkshire in Flamborough.

The North Sea was choppy but bright, seals bobbed in the waves, and the white cliffs stretched ahead as we walked towards Bridlington. It was the perfect backdrop for catching up, breathing deeply, and letting the sea air do its magic. These moments, walking side by side, talking about life and catching up with each other, help us recharge in a way that no meeting room ever could.

At lunch, fish and chips in the headland café, we spent time reflecting on new research from Fair Collective, exploring the mental health of small‑organisation leaders across England. The findings were stark:

• 85% of small charity leaders experience poor mental health because of their role.
• 67% have no budget to support their own mental health or that of their teams.
• Those working in health, education, or with children and young people were hit hardest.

Read the full report here: Breaking Point Report | Fair Collective

Hearing this reinforced why days like ours aren’t a luxury; they’re essential, especially within the charity sector. It also reminded us of the role we play as a funder. We talked openly about how we can work in ways that recognise these pressures, and how we might help ease them rather than unintentionally adding to them. It felt right to use part of our day to think about wellbeing beyond our own organisation.

We also had a great conversation about what more we can do internally to support each other. We’ve got ideas bubbling already, but we’d love to hear yours too. If you have thoughts on how funders can better support wellbeing in the sector, drop us a line at [email protected].

To top the day off, in true Two Ridings spirit, a few brave souls rounded things off with a dip in the North Sea at South Landing. It was bracing, but invigorating and totally joyful.

As we headed home, tired in the best way, we were reminded that wellbeing isn’t one big thing. It’s lots of small things…walking together, talking honestly, noticing the sea, taking a breath, and making time to step back and reconnect with the people who make this work possible.