Our emergency services have faced huge pressures over the last 18 months, so it’s never been more important to show our appreciation for their courageous and selfless efforts.

With that in mind, the Charity is proud to once again be involved with the Blue Light Get Active Challenge – and we’re calling on you to get involved.

The month-long fitness and wellbeing challenge encourages all supporters to get active, whether that’s physically, mentally or socially, throughout October, while supporting our Charity and three others – The Air Ambulance Service, The Ambulance Staff Charity and Police Care UK.

The collaboration, in partnership with emergency service discount provider Blue Light Card and wellbeing organisation Get Active, will see participants clock up as many miles or minutes of fitness or mindfulness exercises as they can throughout the month.

The campaign ultimately aims to help improve the health and wellbeing of frontline workers, all while raising vital funds for the four charities – all of which are there for our emergency service heroes when they need it the most.

Figures from Get Active have revealed that one in three people of working age suffer with poor mental health, with 70 million working days lost each year in the UK as a result. However, widespread research suggests that exercise can be beneficial for our mental health and wellbeing.

The challenge can be whatever you wish. Whether it’s setting a steps target, walking to school or work, completing a Couch to 5K, cycling, swimming, committing to a mindfulness routine or even completing acts of kindness in your community.

Tom Dalby, CEO of Blue Light Card, says: “Our emergency services teams work incredibly hard day in, day out, but the past year and a half has seen them facing huge amounts of pressure, with many sacrificing their own health to keep the nation safe in the wake of COVID-19. The pressures of working tirelessly on the frontline can have a significant emotional impact on those working within the blue light community but fitness and mindfulness exercises can play a big part in helping to overcome that.

“Supporting our emergency service workers is at the core of what we do so this Get Active Challenge is a particularly special one for us. I can’t wait to see how many take the time out of their day to focus on their health and wellbeing in October, all while raising money for a fantastic cause.”

And David Kelly, director at Get Active Challenges, adds: “Emergency service workers have not only been key in treating the public during the pandemic, but they’ve also been crucial for implementing that all-important vaccination rollout – with tremendous success. Frontline workers have faced many challenges over the past year and a half, and with gyms and team sports only just reopening this summer, it’s been even harder than ever for them to focus on their own fitness and wellbeing.

“It’s so important to destress after a tiring shift, and we’d love for emergency responders to join us this October by taking part in any fitness or mindful exercise which boosts their mood. Whether that’s walking your dog or playing a netball game – no activity is too small.”

This Autumn’s campaign marks the second Blue Light Active Challenge, following a successful one in January which saw a total of £15,000 raised for the four causes.

Those taking part will be able to download the Get Active app and track their progress during the month. There will be points awarded for taking part in activities, and a leader board will be updated throughout the duration of the campaign with the overall winner crowned at the end of the campaign. Everyone who signs up and completes an activity will also receive a specially commissioned blue light medal at the end of the month.

To register and for more information on the Blue Light Get Active Challenge, visit: https://bluelightgetactive.com