YMCA DownsLink Challenge FAQ’s

How long is the route?

This is an interesting question as it is hard to say exactly! Google tells you it is about 16 miles however we know from experience it is longer, so plan for 16.5 – 17.5 miles. Take a look and see what you think! Some might smash the walk in 4 ¾ hours but for most it will take 5 or 5 ½ hours depending on length of stops.

Is there a registration fee?

There is a £20 entry fee for those taking part. Your registration fee goes toward the cost of putting on the event. The reg fee also goes toward the cost of your finisher’s medal and YMCA DownsLink Group branded t-shirt. We hope you wear them both regularly after the event!!!

Can we use this as a company team builder / charity day?

Absolutely. Some businesses are looking to use this as an opportunity to bring clients, partners, suppliers, and colleagues to make a day of it. We obviously appreciate all support. We have been suggesting teams of 6 to enter.

As a business can we promote our product or service on the day?

Absolutely. Some businesses are looking to use this as an opportunity to bring clients, partners, suppliers, and colleagues to make a day of it. We obviously appreciate all support. We have been suggesting teams of 8-10 to enter. As a business can we promote our product or service on the day? Sure. We have several sponsorship opportunities and whether you want to put your branding on our charity flags, t-shirts, provide something for people to take home with them, or sponsor the refreshments - there are several ways you can promote your business – just contact me to discuss how we can make it work for your business, email fundraisng@ymcadlg.org

Are dogs allowed on the route?

Dogs are welcome, but please remember we are on a bridleway so keep them under control and in sight. Some parts of the route pass through farmland so please ensure they are well behaved and pick up after them.

Is there a minimum age for taking part in the YMCA DownsLink Challenge?

You know the ability of your children however we have planned and risk assessed the event for adults. Children (aged 11-17) can take part if they are accompanied by a responsible adult.

I’d feel more comfortable if I knew where the toilets were!

Totally understand the importance of this! Hopefully the information in this pack has outlined where the toilet stops are. Do remember to keep hydrated!

When will I next hear from you?

The best way to stay in contact with us is via the Facebook group. Once you sign up, you will receive an invite to join this. Here, there will be useful posts about exercise, walking, running, and fundraising. You’ll also receive emails from us leading up to your challenge, and messages from young people who have benefitted from our services. We will ensure you have all the information you need in good time.

What is JustGiving and why do you use it?

JustGiving is an online fundraising platform to help you manage your sponsorship. Once you’ve signed up for YMCA DownsLink Challenge you’ll be prompted to create a fundraising page by logging into your existing JustGiving account or creating an account. You can customise it in many different ways – and this is what makes your page engaging! Just Giving provide us with notifications of your progress and helps us ensure everyone gets the support they need. Just Giving have created QR codes and handy links to ensure it is easy to share on your social channels and to your networks.

How will YMCA DownsLink Group spend the funds I raise?

Every penny you raise will go towards supporting vulnerable young people find safe and secure housing and learn the tools needed to live independently. Our projects need funding every year and we rely on your donations to continue supporting homeless young people. Here are some examples of how your funds transform young lives:

£10 could contribut towards an accommodation ‘Welcome Kit’ given to a young person

£25 could provide emergency supplies for a young person removed from an abusive home

£50 could facilitate emergency family mediation

£75 could help a young person get onto a young training scheme to acquire work skills

£125 could train new staff in spotting signs of self-harm

£275 could provide 6 trauma support sessions for sexually exploited young people

£500 could help us fund ‘Passport to Independence’ – our programme to help young people become independent and make their way in the world when they leave us

What about Gift Aid?

Gift Aid is a tax relief allowing UK charities to reclaim an extra 25% in tax on every eligible donation made by a UK taxpayer, so we can claim an additional 25p on your £1 donation. If you are donating by cheque or cash, please get in touch with us.

What happens if I don’t achieve my fundraising target?

Our fundraising forecasts are based on our events being successful. If we are not successful in achieving our forecasts, we simply cannot achieve what we set out to do. With Covid increasing demand by 61% and inflation impacting everything we facilitate; these funds are more important than ever if we wish to make positive change in the lives of young people. I am here to help you if you get stuck so please just call me!

I can’t take part anymore – what should I do?

If you can no longer take part in the physical event, please let us know.

Is your question not answered here? Drop us an email at fundraising@ymcadlg.org and we’ll come back to you as soon as we can.