Nick Baird Chair The Nation Challenge

Organised by Carers UK

In 2025 Carers UK celebrates its 60th anniversary. To mark this incredible milestone I am taking on a nationwide challenge to raise awareness for the 5.8 million unpaid carers across the UK to ensure they get the recognition and support they deserve.

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Across the UK, 5.8 million unpaid carers support loved ones who are older, disabled, or seriously ill. Carers UK provides essential advice, information, and support while campaigning to transform understanding and win critical developments in carers’ rights.

Story

In 2025, I’ll be taking on four challenge events across the UK, each representing a nation. Kicking off in England with the Bath Half Marathon on Sunday 17 March 2025. Then, I’ll head to Scotland for the Glasgow Kilt Walk, taking place across the weekend of 26 & 27 April. After that, it’s Northern Ireland, where I’ll run the Derry Waterside Half Marathon on Sunday 7 September. Finally, I’ll finish in Wales at the Cardiff Half Marathon on Sunday 5 October.

Why I’m Doing This

I’m not just the Chair of Carers UK - I’m a carer too. My experiences have highlighted the emotional and bureaucratic sides of caring, from managing regular interactions with local authorities to arranging care during family events abroad. I wanted to do this across all four nations because Carers UK is a four-nation charity, and caring is an issue that affects the entire UK. My hope is to make a real impact, not just financially, but by increasing awareness and understanding of carers’ situations.

Bath Half Marathon - 17/3/25

I actually quite enjoyed running the Bath half, which took place in beautiful weather. I finished in 2.43.33, slow for many people, but 1 minute and 27 seconds ahead of my target time! I will see if I can beat this in my remaining two half marathons in Derry and Cardiff. It was great to meet Tim at the end, my fellow Trustee, who had just completed an 80 mile walk to raise funds and awareness for unpaid carers.

Glasgow Kiltwalk - 27/4/25

The challenge continues…. I gave myself a bit of a break from training after the Glasgow Kiltwalk which has so many happy memories, not least being bagpiped off at the start, the gorgeous views as we progressed and the great free meal at the end!"

Derry Waterside Half Marathon - 07/9/25

How You Can Support Me

Donate: Every penny helps improve the lives of unpaid carers

Spread the Word: Share my story and this page with your networks to amplify the message

Create Your Own Challenge: Take on 60 miles or 135,000 steps in a month to show solidarity. Click 'Start fundraising' to create your own fundraising page for your challenge

Join me: Sign up for one of the events and run or walk alongside

Thank you for your support! Together, we can make a difference for the 5.8 million unpaid carers across the UK and ensure they get the recognition and support they deserve.

Donation summary

Total
£10,097.06
+ £1,954.30 Gift Aid
Online
£10,037.06
Offline
£0.00
Direct
£3,477.20
Fundraisers
£6,619.86

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