Step Up In Lockdown To Support People With a Sensory Loss

Walkers are being urged to use their daily exercise to raise money to support deaf and/or blind people in the region as part of a charity challenge.

The annual Step Up Challenge run by sensory loss charity DSN, has been launched, with participants pledging to walk 10,000 steps a day (average 5 miles) to raise money to help support people in both Cheshire and North Wales.

Erica Jones, fundraiser, said: “We launched the campaign in November and we were so pleased so see the efforts of the participants who have been tracking their steps around factories, the office and even in the roads outside their homes! We were so impressed with how much effort and dedication people made to step up to the challenge that we thought it would be a great focus for people in Lockdown 3.0!”

DSN is now inviting people to take on the Step Up Challenge at any time that suits them - whether it be for a new health kick or as part of a way to improve mental health and wellbeing during the pandemic.

The four week fundraiser asks those who take part to submit the outcome of their walks weekly via email to Erica and to raise money and awareness via their social media and social networks throughout the challenge - all for just a minimum £10 entry fee with option to complete it as a sponsored event (a form is available to download from the DSN website).

Erica added: “With people using their exercise time away from gyms during lockdowns, this is a simple and effective way to get healthy whilst raising money for charity. The funds will go to help support projects for people who are deaf and/or blind in the region - which are much needed now more than ever before.”

To register your interest contact DSN Fundraiser Erica Jones at ejones@dsnonline.co.uk with the subject line ‘Big Step Challenge’ or call 0333 220 5050.

Pictured - Derek Shannon and his son Georgie who have previously taken part in the Step Up Challenge for DSN.