Charities and their support have been needed more than ever throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, despite increasing need for the work of charities, they have been one of the worst hit by COVID-19. A loss of income due to the pandemic has led to 1 in 10 charities believing they will be forced to close within a year.

Young people and their education has also been massively affected by the pandemic. Educational inequality has worsened from issues such as access to online learning and limited provision. Students already at risk of not fulfilling their potential risk falling further behind.

Throughout the pandemic Universify has worked to support these students through our year-long programme, moving residentials online and supporting students with monthly coaching to counter the pandemic's impact. As a staff member at Universify, I've seen first hand the impact that our coaches and online programme has had in raising aspirations and helping students work towards fulfilling their potential despite the pandemic.

Like many charities, Universify has seen an increased demand for their work at a time when fundraising has become even harder.

On Sunday 2nd May I'm taking part in the Captain Tom 100 Challenge to raise money for Universify to support students to fulfil their potential regardless of their background. Having coached Universify students during the pandemic I have been inspired by their resilience and perseverance and in that spirit ,

I will be attempting to do a handstand 100 times and despite falling down after a failed attempt (there will be many) I will be motivated by the resilience and perseverance our inspiring students have shown in overcoming the setbacks of the pandemic.