The population of the UK is ageing. The proportion of people aged over 65 rose from 15% to 17% from 1985-2010, an increase of 1.7m people, and is projected to reach 23% by 2035. This places great pressure on social care providers to find qualified carers and as a result the elderly suffer from the lack of suitable care or from abuse from those who should be caring for them. 

The elderly already feel ostracised as a group through the age restrictions placed on work and slowly become disengaged from society. People and their perception of work the elderly are capable of also changes or perhaps they are viewed as being non-productive dependants who are out of touch with the times.  

By showing support you are sending a message to them to say that some of us do actually care, that they are still respected and regarded as a source of historical memory and wisdom.  

The challenge is due to take place on the 9th or 10th of July.