Community challenges

One of the ways that we like to bring the recovery community together is by tackling physical endurance challenges as a group. Whether running, hiking, walking or cycling, we aim to enter events across the country which cater to all abilities - and we’ll be with you every step of the way!

All challenges are free to enter; we just ask that participants help to raise money for Essex Recovery Foundation by asking family and friends for sponsorship or by organising fundraising events. Any money raised through our community challenges will go towards our minibus project which you can read about at the bottom of this page.

Ultra Challenge: Thames Bridge Trek: 25km

9th September 2023

The Thames Bridge Trek challenge is fun, safe, and rewarding – with full support all the way, enabling you to to really enjoy the best of London, its landmarks, and 16 historic bridges.

London Winter Walk: 42km

27th January 2024

Start off the year strong by becoming a marathoner! Take on the 42km distance with #TeamERF. This is a great walking-only event to kick start your New Year fitness regime!

Help us to raise money for a minibus

Essex Recovery Foundation is currently trying to raise £50k to purchase a minibus to connect people in recovery to safe and supportive spaces filled with like-minded people.

We want to make sure that transport is not a barrier for people in recovery to be part of the growing community in Essex - and we need £50k to make that happen!

If you would like to help us fundraise by asking family and friends to sponsor you for participating in one of our community challenges, you can use our central fundraising link here.

Thank you for supporting Essex Recovery Foundation!

 FAQs

  • Yes! Essex Recovery Foundation will pay for your entry costs. You’ll just need to pay for your travel to-and-from the event.

  • Essex Recovery Foundation is currently aiming to raise £50k to purchase a minibus for the recovery community. There are no fundraising targets for each participant, we simply ask that you use our central fundraising link to ask family and friends for sponsorship for taking part in these challenges.

    If you do want to organise fundraising events or seek corporate sponsorship to help us reach our target, please get in touch and we would be happy to support your fundraising efforts!

  • Yes! We’d love for you to join our team.

  • This is just the beginning! We hope to add lots of different challenges throughout the year. Keep your eyes peeled or join our mailing list to find out more.

  • There’s no denying it – these walking challenges are tough. It will be physically and emotionally demanding! You will need to prepare well – and should read the training advice on the Ultra Challenge website. The more comfortable you are with walking long distances for sustained periods – the more comfortable you will be on the challenge itself.

    Essex Recovery Foundation organise regular walks to get your fitness levels.

  • Ultra Challenge have brought together a great kit list in their event app: https://www.ultrachallenge.com/participant-area/