Myself and my family are taking on the Leaden Boot Challenge to raise money for Ashbourne Playaway, a fantastic local charity that supports children with additional needs and physical disabilities.

Myself and my family will be tackling the Leaden Boot Challenge — a demanding 26.2-mile walk/run with 4,800 feet of ascent and descent, starting and finishing in the beautiful White Peak village of Alstonefield. It’s going to be a tough challenge, but it’s all for an incredible cause.

Ashbourne Playaway has been providing fun, stimulating days out for children aged 4–16 with additional needs and/or physical disabilities for over 20 years. During the school holidays, the charity organises trips and activities that give children the chance to experience new places, build friendships, grow in confidence and develop independence.

The scheme supports children with a wide range of needs including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, Epilepsy, speech and language difficulties, visual and sensory impairments, and behavioural challenges.

Ashbourne Playaway is run by a dedicated team of qualified coordinators and volunteers, all DBS checked and experienced in supporting children with additional needs. Many volunteers are students studying fields such as medicine, teaching, and social care, so the charity not only supports children but also helps develop the next generation of professionals working in these vital sectors.

As a registered charity, Ashbourne Playaway relies on grants, fundraising and community support to continue providing these life-enhancing experiences for the children and families who benefit from the scheme.

Any donation — big or small — would mean a huge amount and will help ensure these special days out can continue for many more children in the future.