A North East charity transforming lives through physical activity has received vital funding from LNER. Rise, a health and wellbeing charity, works to improve mental and physical health, enhance child development and education, create healthy communities, and provide workplace wellbeing training. Its programmes support people of all ages, including children in poverty, care-experienced young people, young men with mental health difficulties, and people with disabilities or long-term health conditions.

The funding from the LNER Customer and Community Investment Fund has enabled Rise to develop year-long opportunities for up to 70 young people aged 12–30 in Berwick-upon-Tweed. The schemes are designed to build resilience, confidence, and meaningful connections within the community. By facilitating access to affordable activities, Rise helps improve physical and mental health, raise aspirations, and support young people in planning for their future.

Deacon, one of the young people supported by Rise, describes the impact of the charity in a short film released by LNER. He said: “I was in a horrible place. I was homeless at the time and suffered with depression and anxiety and had no routine or purpose. Thanks to the help from Jaki, I’m now working and have my own flat. I've got so much more confidence now and am much happier – it's unbelievable.” Rise Key Worker Jaki added: “Seeing where Deacon is now, compared to how he was feeling when he first walked through the door, is amazing. He’s been able to sustain the change in his life and continue to grow in confidence. His future is really bright and we’re proud to have supported him on his way.”

Michael Ali, Health Integration Strategic Lead at Rise, said: “The LNER funding has allowed us to continue delivering vital support to young people in our area. Our programmes are not just about physical activity — they’re about hope, building communities, and creating long-term change.” Rachael Wilson, Community Investment Manager at LNER, added: “The work that Rise does is truly inspiring. LNER is proud to support its life-changing work and the opportunities the charity creates for the local community in the North East.”

Image: LNER