A team of Foward Leeds staff raised £2269 for our Family Plus service.
They climbed the three highest peaks in Yorkshire, despite being battered by rain and gales. The team of 14 set off from Horton in Ribblesdale at 7.30am on Saturday 5 September and walked the three peaks clockwise, first Ingleborough then Whernside and finally Pen-y-Ghent. They arrived back at Horton just after the sun had set.
Drug and Alcohol Worker Kathryn Blackburn, who had the original idea for the challenge, said: “I wanted to do this because when I was supported by Forward Leeds for my drinking four years ago, the Family Plus team were such a big help to me and to my son, who was nine at the time. I was really pleased so many of my colleagues wanted to join in and were so enthusiastic. It was a real team effort to conquer to get around those three peaks.
“It was an exceptionally challenging day. I don’t think many of us thought it would be quite as tough as it was, with the weather not working in our favour and unexpected rugged terrain with almost sheer drops on some descents.
“We were lucky to have an experienced climber in our Clinical Director Dr Mark Hallam, who guided us up and down through the wind, mists and rain. But when push came to shove, it was a tremendous all round team effort to make it to the end.”
The team high up in the mists
Ready to set off
Climbers in the mist
Descending
Kathryn continued: “It all feels worth it, though, when we now look at the money raised so far. That money is going to be able to help so many children at a really difficult time for them and their parents. We would like to personally thank everyone who has donated money so far.”
The usual Yorkshire Three Peaks route is 24 miles (38.6km), and includes 1585m (5200ft) of ascent but due to ongoing works in the National Park the team had to take a slightly longer route.
The Family Plus service is about getting early help. They work with familes to provide a rounded package of support. Family Plus ensure the best possible outcomes for the children as well as supporting parents through their recovery journey.
Part of the work of the Family Plus service is running groups and activities for families to spend positive time together. The climbing team were fundraising to provide money for Family Plus to provide these activities for the whole family.
Between the peaks
Sheltering from the rain and wind
Catherine, Dani and Helen