We are the LADIES WHO PLUNGE: South London friends who swim together all year round for the camaraderie, joy and Earl Grey tea.

The last sponsored swim we did only actually required each of us to swim one width (albeit a very chilly one). So this September we're raising our game! We'll be swimming the 1 mile Serpentine Swim in Hyde Park to raise money for Growing Hope, a charity that does amazing work providing free therapeutic support for families with children who have additional needs. (More info on Growing Hope below)

4 of the LWPs will be doing the actual swimming (Katharina, Lucy, Annabel and Ruth); the others will be the all-important land-crew (general cheering and whooping, towel-holding and post-swim picnic organising). [Sorry that the photo doesn't have everyone in!!!] We'd be so grateful for your support. JustGiving doesn't top-slice donations, so every penny you give goes directly to the charity.

Growing Hope provides a range of therapies including occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and music therapy to help children and young people reach their potential. They also provide support for parents, carers and siblings through groups and courses.

Research suggests that families aren’t getting the support they need on the NHS as services are currently so stretched. Growing Hope aims to bridge the gap by providing support for families who are desperate for help. In London there are currently 2 clinics - in Brockley and Kings Cross, and there are 6 clinics elsewhere in England.

www.growinghope.org.uk