Mental health charity Response is encouraging people to get active this February by taking part in Challenge28, a fundraising initiative designed to support children and young people waiting for statutory mental health care.
Participants are invited to complete 28 miles across the month of February in any way that suits them. The distance can be walked, run, wheeled or cycled, at any pace, in any location, and broken down across the month or completed in one go.
The challenge reflects national figures showing the scale of delays facing young people in need of mental health support.
Data from the Children’s Commissioner indicates that 28 per cent of children and young people referred to statutory mental health services in 2022 and 2023 were still waiting for help a year later.
Nearly 40,000 children were reported to be waiting at least two years, with anxiety the most common reason for referral.
Through Challenge28, Response is asking fundraisers to aim to raise £100 each to help relieve pressure on overstretched statutory services and ensure people receive support earlier.
The charity focuses on preventative mental health care, connecting children, young people and adults with specialist teams who provide evidence-based treatments and interventions.
By supporting people before difficulties escalate, Response aims to improve long-term wellbeing while reducing demand on statutory services.
Funds raised through the challenge will help Response continue its work across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and beyond. The charity works closely with schools, CAMHS, GPs and other professionals to ensure support is available when it is needed.
Last year alone, Response supported 2,380 young people, helping them build skills, resilience and a more positive future.
Challenge28 is open to everyone, regardless of fitness level, and is designed to raise awareness as well as funds. Participants are encouraged to move in whatever way works for them while supporting vital mental health services in their community.
Further details about Challenge28, including how to sign up, are available via Response’s website.
