Over the first four Fridays in May, Northamptonshire High Sheriff Jeremy Sharman and Northamptonshire Community Foundation CEO Rachel McGrath will trek 40km across Northamptonshire, with each 10km trek taking place in a different area of the county.

Jeremy and Rachel are undertaking this challenge to raise vital funds for the Northamptonshire High Sheriff’s Initiative Fund, which awards grants to local groups working to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour. This year we will welcome and prioritise applications supporting prison leavers and prisoner rehabilitation, and projects supporting adult ex-offenders, young offenders or young ex-offenders. .

The treks will take place in Corby, Kettering, Northampton, and Daventry, with local charities and community organisations joining along the way to share their incredible work supporting young people and strengthening our communities.

The High Sheriff’s Initiative Fund, managed by Northamptonshire Community Foundation, helps build a more cohesive, connected, and safer Northamptonshire by supporting grassroots projects that make a lasting difference. Every pound raised will be matched through the Proceeds of Crime Fund, doubling the impact of your donation.

The Northamptonshire Hidden Needs Report (2023) revealed a clear and urgent need for investment in crime reduction initiatives. In 2022, the county ranked among the top 20 most dangerous in England, with a crime rate of 85 per 1,000 people.

“There a far too many young men and women out there who fall into a life of crime through no fault of their own-as a result of the circumstances in which they have grown up. There are some great local charities already working in this area, both in the area of crime prevention and also in the rehabilitation of ex-offenders. I would be so grateful if could you help me to support their work and provide fresh vision and hope.” – Jeremy Sharman, High Sheriff

By donating, you're helping to fund life changing grants that empower local groups, uplift young people, and promote safer, stronger communities across Northamptonshire.