This July I am taking part in the UK Challenge; working as part of a team of six to run, cycle, and kayak over some of the most beautiful, yet challenging, terrain in the Lake District.

Taking on 7 stages over 3 days, we will need tested both cognitively and physically, whilst raising money for Onwards & Upwards, a charity which creates initiatives providing employment to ex-offenders, the first of which is XO Bikes. They provide training inside, employment outside & pastoral support on all sides. Over 400 studies show that employment is the single most important factor in reducing reoffending rates.

Every year 48% of those leaving prison are back inside within 12 months of release. Why? Not because they want to be but because they can’t find work. Unfortunately, in order to make ends meet they fall into previous social groups activities which lead to the same outcomes, prison.

Onwards & Upwards was created to show that with the right training and the stability of employment that recall to prison is not the preferred option of those leaving the criminal justice system. XO Bikes was founded in 2022 and has trained over 80 people to become bicycle mechanics, employing many and connecting with partners like Decathlon and Fettle who have hired their graduates. The second venture, XO Barbers is launching in 2025 with a training salon being installed in Brixton.

This will be a tough physical and mental challenge, but for a great cause so would appreciate any donations.

www.onwardsandupwards.uk

www.xobikes.com