This Saturday, I’ll be taking on the challenge of walking across some of the most iconic bridges in London, for the London Bridges Walk 2025, organised by the Public Sector Challenge.
The Public Sector Challenge was created by the Chief Executive of Brentwood BC and Rochford DC, Jonathan Stephenson, after leading his own teams on a similar – if somewhat smaller – challenge in 2022. Since then, the Challengers have taken on the Three Peaks Challenge and even the Yorkshire 3 Peaks in 2024.
This year, I, a team of Cratus Group colleagues, and over 650 public sector and private organisations take on the inaugural London Bridges Walk of either a 25km or 15km journey across 16 of London’s 35 bridges, all in aid of Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation.
Anyone who knows me knows I love a good walk. It’s something I attempt to incorporate into my daily routine. It’s more than just walking, it’s a space for me to meditate, clearmy head and, of course, get my steps in. What’s more, I love shouting about the benefits of walking, even when it’s just 10 minutes a day.
Research shows that 10-30 minutes a day of brisk walking significantly improves cardiovascular and pulmonary health, reduces the risk of heart disease and boosts energy and mood. It’s also the most accessible and free way to keep fit.
Let’s not forget about the social and wellbeing benefits of walking too. Walking as a group combats loneliness, creates shared experiences and even boosts motivation. If you don’t believe me, head to this article by the British Heart Foundation.
Most importantly, walking – or doing any other activity – for charity gives you a sense of purpose, knowing that your actions and time are going towards benefiting causes and making a difference.
You can find more about the Public Sector Challenge here. If you would like to donate towards the Public Sector Challenge, you can by visiting the Give Wheel page. All donations will be shared equally between the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK.
If you would like to join the mailing list for future Public Sector Challenge events, you can join the mailing list here.