Three years ago I began volunteering for the Friendship Circle and it has changed my life for the better. This super extraordinary charity gives so much support and friendship to people in the community who would possibly be feeling very alone. Every day people with disabilities face loneliness and isolation. I feel privileged to be able to volunteer, but also to say that I have many new friends who I spend time with at many different events and activities.

I am now being given an opportunity to participate in a personal challenge while at the same time raise funds for this charity so very dear to me. I’m doing the Great Cloudwater Challenge - a 2K canoe followed by an 18km hike then abseiling 100ft down the mountain! (You know I love a challenge!)

For the last 16 years The Friendship Circle has been enriching the lives of people with disabilities in the Manchester community through their fully inclusive social and recreational programmes, enabling members to integrate into society, building confidence and self esteem.

As The Friendship Circle receives no statutory funding they are completely reliant on donations from the community.