Feb 25 2021

We have joined forces with the Students’ Union (SU) to take part in The British Inspiration Trust (BRIT) 2021 Challenge. The BRIT 2021 Challenge is an inclusive feel-good fundraiser to improve mental health and fitness, all whilst raising vital funds to support young people’s mental health. The Challenge is designed to be completed by individuals working as a team to cover 2,021 miles by taking part in activities such as walking, running, cycling and rowing. Every UK university, college and students’ union has been invited to take part, enter teams and support student and staff participation, both on-campus and at home. The Challenge is to be completed between now and 1 July 2021 and we would encourage all students and staff to get involved. 

Mark Hyndman, Head of Student Engagement and Sport, said: “We’re really excited to be taking on the BRIT 2021 Challenge across the Royal Holloway community, following the success of last year’s event.

“Here at the university we welcome raising vital funds for young people’s mental health, all whilst improving our own health and fitness. At Royal Holloway we are once again encouraging our students and staff to take part in the challenge as we really value the importance of both the physical and mental health on our community as well as the opportunity to support BRIT’s partner mental health charities.”

Lucy Brown, Vice-President Societies and Sport, said: “Aimed at improving mental health and fitness, whilst raising funds to support young adult mental health, this challenge is one I am extremely proud to support.

“The rise in prevalence of mental health diagnoses, particularly amongst young people and at universities, is something we need to speak up about and start breaking down the stigma that is usually associated with it.

“I think nearly every one of us will have some kind of encounter with poor mental health, either through supporting a friend or family member, or experiencing it ourselves. Therefore, we know just how valuable events like these are for raising awareness and opening up these important conversations.

“Not only will you be helping raise funds for a charity that supports other young people’s mental wellbeing, but you will be benefiting your own mental wellbeing too. Let’s work together to complete BRIT 2021 and show that our community at Royal Holloway is united in speaking up about mental health!”

To find out more about the BRIT 2021 Challenge, visit the website here.