TV regular Ben Shephard is amongst a host of celebrities supporting this year’s Big Step challenge
Much-loved presenter, author, columnist and NHS doctor – Dr Ranj Singh – is once again encouraging the nation to get moving while improving NHS services in the process.
Now in its second year, ‘The Big Step’ takes place this October and invites people across the UK to raise funds for the NHS by walking 5,000 or 10,000 steps every day throughout the month. Sign up here.
Long-standing TV and radio favourite and walking fan Gaby Roslin is also lending her support to the fundraiser for the second year in a row. TV regulars Dr Hilary Jones and Ben Shephard; Paralympic athletes Ade Adepitan and Danny Crates; choreographer Dame Arlene Philips; Scottish music duo The Proclaimers and former Steps superstar Lee Latchford-Evans also recorded special video messages encouraging participants to get involved in this year’s walking challenge.
Dr Ranj Singh said:
“We know that walking can have significant benefits for your mental and physical health. As well as helping you stay mobile, exercise muscles and maintain a healthy weight, it’s a great stress reliever and can even help combat depression.
Dr Ranj is once again encouraging the nation to get moving while supporting the NHS in the process
“There’s nothing like exercise-induced endorphins to make you feel good – and you’ll feel even better knowing you’re raising funds to help NHS charities while you’re at it. And anyone can take part regardless of ability. Just do whatever you can – it all counts and helps!”
Avid walker Gaby Roslin, who often clocks up 20,000 steps a day, added:
“By taking part in The Big Step, you’re helping others and you’re helping yourself. Walking is good for your heart, your body, your soul, your head. And the planet. The NHS do an amazing job, and we should all play our part by staying fit and healthy.”
Not only it is hoped that everybody who registers for The Big Step can become more active, whatever their level of fitness or ability, but the funds they raise will help to make healthcare better for everyone who needs it.
In March 2022, we awarded almost £50,000 from our Covid-19 Appeal to Brighter Futures charity to purchase a bespoke rehabilitation treadmill, which helps patients walk with unweighted support. Louise Stribling benefitted from this treadmill after experiencing a life-changing spinal injury in March 2023. After being told she would never walk again, Louise has made huge progress and is now encouraging members of the public to take on the Big Step challenge.
Louise said:
Following a life-changing injury, Louise has made huge progress thanks to NHS Charities Together funding
“When I first tried the treadmill, I was terrified I was going to fall but the harness made me feel safe and secure, and it gave me confidence. I loved the session. After three weeks I was able to move my feet by myself. We were all so excited and there were lots of tears. It’s a memory I will never forget, and it gave me the strength to keep continuing to get better. If it wasn’t for that treadmill I wouldn’t be walking.
“I am a wheelchair user now but only outside of the house. I can get around my house and I don’t need 24/7 care. I am grateful to still have access to the treadmill to continue practising walking. The NHS was there from the moment I sustained this horrendous injury up to where I am now, and I am so thankful. That’s why I’m encouraging everyone to sign up for the Big Step challenge – to get active and raise funds for life-changing equipment like this treadmill.”
Sue took part in the Big Step in 2023 and has registered to take part again this October alongside her dog Zeetta. She says:
Sue with Zeetta and her Big Step medal
“I am so looking forward to taking part in the Big Step this year. I decided to take on this challenge last year after having a near fatal heart attack in 2022. I know I’m very lucky to be here and walking has been a large part of my recovery and improving my fitness. I will be doing the challenge with one of my dogs Zeetta.
“Last year, 3,000 steps a day was my target, but on many days, I was able to do 5,000. With arthritis in various places – particularly my feet and ankles – it was definitely a challenge. Some days are tough, but knowing I’m helping NHS Charities Together keeps me going, as does the support I’ve found through the Facebook group.”
Louise McCathie, Director of Fundraising for NHS Charities Together, added:
“This October, we’re excited to see people donning their trainers, pounding across pavements and parks and peering at their pedometers as they clock up their steps in aid of the NHS. The Big Step is something everyone can do, whoever and wherever you are. Whether your target is 5,000 or 10,000 steps a day, you’ll not only be helping your own health and improving your fitness, you’ll be helping our much-loved NHS too.
“Put your best foot forward this October and join me by taking part in the Big Step challenge. Every penny raised will help the NHS go further by supporting our NHS staff, patients and communities. Whether it’s funding interactive kitten scanners for children facing cancer, or rest and relaxation spaces for hard-working NHS staffs coming off busy shifts, the extra help is needed now more than ever. With winter approaching and our health services becoming even busier, we’re so grateful for everyone raising vital funds to make sure our NHS can thrive and be there for all of us when we need it most.”
There is free entry and no minimum fundraising target, and alongside the amazing feeling of getting active and boosting your health, participants also receive rewards as they reach key fundraising milestones. Sign up below.
