Galloway’s has been leading the way in connecting people who work in the sight loss sector by introducing a wellbeing challenge during lockdown.
Understanding the need to lift spirits and show solidarity during the pandemic, Stuart Clayton, CEO of Galloway’s, invited members of other sight loss charities across the UK to take part in Run, Walk, Crawl Virtual Race That’s Not a Race.
The six-week challenge involved teams taking on a virtual tour of sight loss organisations across England, Wales and Scotland, with a target of 1,240 miles. The aim of the event was to boost morale and connect fellow colleagues who work in the sector.
Stuart Clayton said: “All our colleagues in the sight loss sector have worked extremely hard under incredibly difficult conditions over the past year, so we wanted to show some solidarity and focus on their wellbeing.
“We came up with this challenge to give everyone an opportunity to focus on something positive and encourage the benefits of physical exercise. It has also been a fantastic way to connect people as it has sparked great conversations between colleagues who work at other sight loss organisations.
“This has been a real team effort and I wish to thank everyone for their enthusiasm in taking part, as well as those who have helped with the admin.
“It will be great to build on this success by maintaining the strong relationships that have arisen from this inaugural event.”
Feedback from the teams included: “The race has brought us friendship, fun and fitness,” “I feel much fitter and mentally much more positive,” “It has encouraged me to get out and I have visited some beautiful places,” “I have enjoyed getting to know my sight loss colleagues”, and “I have loved every minute of it.”
A total of 20 sight loss organisations took part: Galloway’s, Visionary, RNIB, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Beacon Centre for the Blind, Berkshire Vision, Blind Veterans UK, Cam Sight, My Sight Notts, North East Sensory Services, Sheffield Royal Society, Sight Advice South Lakes, Sight Concern Bedfordshire, Sight Concern Worcester, Support 4 Sight, The Wilberforce Trust, Visibility Scotland, Vision Support, Vista Blind, and Wakefield District Sight Aid.
With more than 200 participants, the organisations collectively covered 56,982 miles, equating to twice around the world plus 6,000 miles.
Thank you Charity Today for including this story on your website: https://www.charitytoday.co.uk/sight-loss-charities-connect-through-wellbeing-challenge/