This September, our intrepid team of four swimmers will brave the cold waters of the Serpentine, tackling distances from half a mile to two miles in what promises to be a significant challenge for all of us. Swimming in open water is never easy – the cold temperatures, physical demands and mental stamina required make this a daunting prospect that will push each of us well beyond our comfort zones.

We're undertaking this challenging swim to raise vital funds for Child Rescue Nepal, an organisation dedicated to protecting vulnerable children and providing them with hope for a better future. Every stroke through those chilly waters will be motivated by our commitment to making a real difference in the lives of children who desperately need support.

Our Target: £9,500 for Clean Water & Dignity

We're specifically raising funds for Birendra Primary School in Dolakha district, Nepal – one of the epicentres of the 2015 earthquake. This remote mountain school serves 60 pupils (40 of them girls), with children walking up to an hour each way to attend classes, often arriving with empty stomachs.

During our recent visit, we discovered that whilst the school runs well academically, the WASH facilities are desperately poor. The old toilets are smelly, blocked and unusable. Two small replacement toilets built by the local municipality are insufficient and compromise students' privacy – girls told us they have to go in pairs so one can guard whilst the other uses the facility. The school has no taps or safe drinking water system.

When we asked the children what one thing would most improve their school, they unanimously said: "Toilets with running water."

Our £9,500 target will provide:

- New child and disabled-friendly toilets

- Taps with water purification system

- Water source management

- WASH training with hygiene kits

The Serpentine swim represents more than just a physical challenge – it's our way of turning personal discomfort into positive change. Whether tackling the full two-mile distance or the half-mile route, each team member will be pushing their limits for a cause that truly matters.

We hope you'll consider sponsoring our team as we take the plunge this September. Your support will help motivate us through the cold and fatigue but, more importantly, will contribute directly to transforming daily life for 60 children who deserve clean water and basic dignity. Together, we can turn our swimming challenge into life-changing support for those who need it most.