So, you’ve taken the first step to becoming a charity challenger – congratulations! By signing up for a challenge, you’ve committed to pushing yourself physically and mentally, to raising money for your chosen charity and to achieving an amazing goal at the end of it all.
To get the best out of your challenge journey, utilising your participant account area is key. We’ve pulled together a simple overview and top tips for some of the most important tabs below to get you started. At the end of this blog, you’ll also find a short helpful video on navigating your account area…
TOP TIP: Got a question about your challenge? Check your account area first! The answer is most likely in there…
Homepage
The following tabs can be found on your account homepage in the left-hand list:
- For UK and Overseas challenges: Booking Details, Challenge Documents, Responsible Tourism, Fundraising, Fitness and Training, Clothing and Equipment, Get Connected and Invoices and Payments.
- Additional tabs for Overseas challenges: Passport Details, Travel Plans, Insurance, *Extensions and *High-Altitude (if applicable).
This gives a summary of your challenge, dates and payment option timelines. Here, vital information you must complete such as booking and medical details will show either in green or red – indicating their status for your ease.
Booking Details
Here, you can view, adjust and submit all your personal details. You will also see your unique booking reference number.
TOP TIP: If you’d like to connect with other people on your challenge, within the personal details form you can click to ‘opt in’ on sharing your contact details with other participants! (Don’t forget to choose your T-Shirt size carefully, too!)
Challenge Documents
One of your most important tabs! All supporting documents are found here, such as Trip Notes, safety information and T&Cs. Closer to your challenge date, further important documents are uploaded with extra details…
Timeline of when each document is uploaded:
| UK Challenges | Overseas Challenges | |
| Straight after sign up | Trip Notes, Safety Information and T&Cs. | Trip Notes, Safety Information and T&Cs (plus your ATOL Certification and ATOL Confirmation) |
| Three months before challenge date | n/a | Challenge Checklist and Visa Information. |
| One month before challenge date | Final Details | Final Details and Emergency Contacts |
TOP TIP: Keep these timelines in mind! You will also be notified by email when new documents are added to your account area, and a “new” icon will show on it until you’ve opened it, so you won’t forget anything!
Breakdown of what you’ll find in the further documents:
| UK Challenges | Overseas Challenge | |
| Challenge Checklist | n/a | Provides more detailed information and checklist reminders ahead of your trip, covering: Training, Passport and Visa, Flight Tickets, Flight Connections, Flight Extensions, Vaccinations, Travel Insurance, Personal Details confirmation, Get Connected, Kit Hire and FCDO Advice. |
| Visa Information | n/a | Visa application and vaccination advice (if applicable). |
| Final Details | Contains arrival/registration address for challenge start, any travelling/parking information and details on challenge finish departure. It also contains reminders for kit essentials and safety on the challenge. It also lists the contact of the Charity Challenge event manager and our emergency contact number. | Your flight details, airport and destination arrival instructions (including how to locate your leader!) and documentation reminders. |
| Emergency Contacts | n/a | Contains contact information for your Charity Challenge leader, the in-country support, accommodation, relevant country Embassy and Charity Challenge emergency numbers. |
Fundraising
Once authorised by your chosen charity, their details will appear here if you wish to connect with them. You’ll also find fundraising advice, fun ideas and useful links to get you inspired.
Fitness & Training
A super important selection of Training Guides, Stretch Programmes and Trekking Training Schedules (if applicable).
If your overseas challenge includes altitude trekking, there’ll be a separate tab on this with information, including a free online consultation with our partner The Altitude Centre.
TOP TIP: These are your best friends when it comes to preparing physically for your trip! Give them a read as soon as possible to make sure you give yourself the best start…
Clothing & Equipment
As a Charity Challenge participant, you will get members only benefits and discounts at a wide range of clothing and equipment suppliers including Outdoorhire, Cotswold Outdoor, Runners Needs, Snow + Rock, The Altitude Centre , Nomad & MASTA, Water to Go and Sporttape. Check out the Clothing and Equipment section in your account area for more information, along with your extensive kit list.
Get Connected
The connectivity hub! You’ll find here the Group Contact List (contact details of those in your group who’ve opted to share) and links to all our socials. You’ll also see a profile and email for your challenge’s Operations Manager.
TOP TIP: Remember, if you want to appear on the Group Contact List, go to the Bookings Details tab and tick to share your details with the group (it just shares your name, email, number and any socials you’ve added).
Invoices and Payments
A summary of your invoices with a paid or outstanding status. New invoices appear here and can be easily paid online (or over the phone).
View Participant Account Area
As you can see, your account area is the go-to place to keep you informed, organised and connected. Making the most of each area means you’ll feel prepared every step of the way – and your Charity Challenge experience will exceed expectations!
Head to the Charity Challenge website for more information and to check out our amazing range of challenges to join.
Over the last 25 years, Charity Challenge have worked with hundreds of businesses to provide innovative and dynamic solutions for employee engagement, and CSR. Our exclusive corporate challenges help companies develop stronger team bonds, demonstrate corporate responsibility and have amazing experiences, all whilst supporting their charity partnerships.
In September 2023, a team of 116 HSBC employees set out to trek Wadi Rum and Petra in aid of the Jordan River Foundation. Charity Challenge worked closely with Richard Barnsley (SVP | Lead | Hardware Technology | Corporate Banking, HSBC USA N.A.) in executing this exciting exclusive challenge. We caught up with Richard about how it went below…
Why did you choose Charity Challenge?
We worked with Charity Challenge to deliver challenge events in Greenland, Ecuador and Jordan for their:
- Experience and expertise of working with our group and our unique requirements.
- Attitude and collaboration in supporting our organising committee.
- Clear supportive communication with trekkers.
- Really great guides balancing safety, leadership and camaraderie – and adaptability as needed.
- Good people, a strong website and excellent leadership.
What was the brief?
I worked with Simon, Charity Challenge Managing Director, and we built the brief together.
The brief: 100 people travelling 100kms. To bring colleagues and cultures together. To explore the world and challenge people.
Achievement hopes: To take our 100 people safely on an adventure and raise money for charity.
What was the outcome?
We safely brought 116 people on the Trek Wadi Rum and Petra Challenge in Jordan and raised over $200,000 together for the Jordan River Foundation.
What feedback did the participants provide?
A massively positive trip:
- Pre trip communications were outstanding.
- Airport logistics in to Jordan were excellent, buses were brilliant and hotels beautiful.
- Pre and post trip options were well liked.
- Campsite locations brilliant and access to water fantastic.
- Everything adapted as needed.
- Dining together was fantastic and a game changer.
- Everyone liked the food.
- The evening chat from the guide was great – and the last night party was excellent.
- Safety side of things was very well supported (helping some trekkers in difficulty).
- They gave people considerable care and support.
Testimonial
Terrific travel company! Great culture and people. If you are organising in-conjunction with Charity Challenge or participating in one of their events you’ll have safe and wonderful trip.
Richard Barnsley, (SVP | Lead | Hardware Technology | Corporate Banking, HSBC USA N.A.)
Read more about our customers have to say on the Google Reviews link below
Check out the challenge video below….
Learn more about our corporate challenges here – or download our brochure.
If you’re interested in engaging your employees with a challenge event – book your free initial consultation now!
During our consultation, we will discuss your business needs, goals and values, provide you with options aligned to your objectives, and then of course, answer any questions that you might have. We’ll also discuss what support we offer and how we will work together throughout your challenge journey.
You can expect this call to last about 30 minutes. We look forward to speaking with you soon!
Throughout the years at Charity Challenge we have met some amazing human beings, with inspirational stories, raising money for charities close to their hearts. We are very proud to be able to share some of their stories with you. This month we would love to introduce you to Kerry Banks (BEM) .
Kerry Banks (BEM) is one of our star challengers. Over the years she’s taken on six overseas Charity Challenges with us – and has just signed up for her seventh! Kerry is a passionate and highly active ambassador for Breast Cancer Now, as well as helping support other charities. Her hard work and inspirational outlook have led to her nomination for ITV Meridian’s Pride of Britain Regional Fundraiser of the Year Award 2024. Back in 2021, Kerry Banks (BEM) was also awarded The British Empire Medal for Services to Breast Cancer.
Kerry, from Kent, began fundraising in 2006 after her close friend Julie Mortimer was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time. This led to Kerry organising her first annual fundraiser, the Crocus Walk, which raised £3,500. After Julie sadly passed in 2010, Kerry has continued to fundraise every year since – through annual walks and various online and in-person events. On top of this, Kerry has also committed to completing challenging international treks every two years! In honour of her friend, she refers to all of her hard fundraising work as Julies Legacy. We caught up with the amazing Kerry below…
Which Charity Challenges have you done?
Kerry is unafraid of taking on new terrains in aid of her fundraising. She first joined Charity Challenge overseas on our Great Wall of China Discovery Trek back in 2012. Since then, Kerry has taken on some of our most popular challenges, including Trek to Machu Picchu, Saigon to Ankor Wat Bike Ride, Sahara Desert Trek and Trek to Petra. Just this September, Kerry undertook the Sumatra Jungle Challenge, for which she managed to raise an amazing £10,000 for Breast Cancer Now!
What’s been your favourite Charity Challenge so far?
The challenges I have undertaken have all been so different and each of them holds incredible memories and sections that have been really special. However, Machu Picchu Trek was one of my favourites as when we came through the sun gate and looked down at it in all its glory, it literally took my breath away and I was completely speechless (which is unheard of for me!). My most recent trek through the Sumatran Jungle Challenge is also right up there – especially when we came up close with monkeys showing us their babies – and close to the wild orangutang!
Also, through these treks, I have made lifelong friends. There are six of us that meet up every year (sometimes more), called the TTA girls. Plus, I have made new friends from Jersey… and an amazing friend I met from Canada on Trek Sahara. The friendships are all thanks to Charity Challenge and our shared passion to help others!
How much have you raised overall?
To date Kerry has raised nearly £300,000 so far for Breast Cancer Now alone. Around £60,000 of this was raised through the Charity Challenges she has completed with us throughout the years!
Fancy challenging yourself in aid of a good cause? Check out our 2025/2026 overseas challenges here.
Any special fundraising tips to share?
Don’t just rely on people donating to your page – put on events to raise money. A quiz is always a good one as you can also hold an auction, raffle and a game of heads and tails with your participants on the night and before you know it, you can raise £2000! My friend and I held a Pink Glitter Ball in the past which raised over £11,000. People love to dress up and feel special, so give them an event to do this! A music night is always a good fundraiser too!
Another good tip is to get businesses to “Sponsor a Day” of your challenge and get their logo/brand printed on a t-shirt with a message from them to wear proudly for a day on the challenge. I sold my days for £150 a business and they always sell out quick! (If anyone would like to be a business Sponsor for my Trek India – please get in touch and get in quick as they sell out really quickly).
How did it feel to be nominated for the Pride of Britain Regional Fundraiser 2024 award?
I was so surprised to be honest when I got the call from ITV, as I already get so much back mentally from my fundraising and helping others. However, I was truly humbled that people had taken the time to nominate me. So a huge thank you to anyone that did!
What’s next for Kerry?
Kerry shows no signs of slowing down. She has recently signed up to our upcoming Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek in November 2026 in aid of Breast Cancer Now – pledging to raise a minimum of £3,210.00. We can’t wait to see Kerry’s fundraising and challenge journey for this trek. Click here to donate towards Kerry’s 2026 Himalayan challenge fundraising.
Make sure to keep an eye on our socials or sign up to our monthly newsletter for more inspirational stories.
Inspiration, Tips & Advice
HOW A CHARITY CHALLENGE CAN IMPROVE WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH
October 10, 2024Today marks World Mental Health Day – and this year’s theme is mental health in the workplace. It’s no secret that mental wellbeing and work are closely related. Whilst work can provide individuals with a sense of purpose and satisfaction – it can also be the place where life’s stresses and poor mental health can take over if not closely looked after.
With the post-pandemic increase in people working remotely, now more than ever it’s vital for the workplace to offer dynamic mental health support.
Getting together, outdoors, in fresh air and amongst nature, connecting with colleagues and supporting a charitable cause is a great way to reignite a sense of community and lift team spirit. At Charity Challenge, we offer a range of motivating outdoor challenges that can enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals and teams alike.
We’ve listed some of the top benefits below…
1) Building Better Relationships
Joining a group challenge can help foster a closer sense of community within your workplace. Working together towards a common goal and overcoming obstacles whilst supporting one another creates lasting connections that benefit the strength of a team.
2) Improve Self Confidence
Every step is a win with Charity Challenge – from signing up, starting your training, reaching your fundraising goals to crossing the finish line. Our challenges are designed to help get the best out of individuals – by improving physical health, raising money for good causes and achieving exciting goals!
3) Supporting Others
Over the last 25 years, our challenge participants have helped raise over £78,000,000, for thousands of charities. We believe every challenger makes a difference, no matter how small. We offer a range of treks and challenges, from challenging to extreme, in the UK and across the world – so there’s plenty of ways to inspire your employees and promote your company’s social agenda.
Click here for our fundraising tips!
4) Healthier Productivity
Research shows regular outdoor exercise increases health and energy levels. Joining a challenge and following our fitness training guides can lead to a healthier sense of productivity and motivation in the workplace. Getting outdoors and moving regularly also helps promote a healthier work-life-balance that is so important to our mental health.
5) Reduce Stress Levels
Life stresses and poor mental health can impact workplace performance and even attendance. Research supports that spending time reconnecting with nature and with others, and increasing your physical activity can help reduce cortisol levels and boost feel-good endorphins.
Your Corporate Challenge
These are just a few of the many proven benefits of getting outdoors, connecting with nature and helping others. At Charity Challenge, we’ve worked closely with HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, Capital One, Société Generale and loads more.
For further information on how to set up your own corporate Charity Challenge with us, please click here!
Have you also heard of our Minds in the Wild Challenges? These challenges offer additional specialist mental health inspiration from professionals along the way. Click here for more inspiration.
“Health and energy are the most important drivers of performance. You can have all the right skills, knowledge and behaviours, but without your health and energy you cannot and will not perform at your best.” – Geoff McDonald, Former Global VP HR Unilever, Global Advocate & Consultant for Health in Workplaces
Imagine a time when the world is wide open for exploration, and you can embark on incredible journeys across some of the planet’s most breathtaking landscapes. Well, now is your chance to grab that opportunity and we’re thrilled to announce that our 2026 overseas challenge dates are now live!
Have you been dreaming of conquering towering peaks, rafting the most tempestuous rapids in the world, trekking through remote terrains, or visiting one of the awe-inspiring Wonders of the World? It’s time to make that a reality and take on an adventure that not only challenges you but also supports a cause close to your heart.
Booking a Charity Challenge for 2026 will give you something exciting to look forward, all while raising money for a good cause. It’s not just about the destination, it’s about staying focused, getting fit, and preparing for the adventure of a lifetime. So, which challenge will you choose?
TREK CHALLENGES
Icelandic Lava Trek
Host to some of Europe’s most incredible wilderness, this Icelandic itinerary takes in thundering waterfalls, steaming lava fields, plunging fjords and spouting geysers. Trek 58kms over 3-days through one of the planet’s most volcanic regions, finishing with an indulgent visit to Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon.
5 days | Iceland | Tough
Trek to Petra
Discover the best of Jordan in this exhilarating 5 day trek along part of the Jordan Trail. Camp under the stars, Bedouin-style in the desert and delight in the ancient hidden Rose city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
8 days | Jordan | Tough
Trek the Accursed Albanian Alps
A challenging and spectacular trek at the very heart of the Albanian Alps, known as ‘The Accursed Mountains’. Amazing scenery, ancient traditions and welcoming hospitality along with some incredible hikes will fill your days in this hidden corner of Europe.
8 days | Albania | Tough
Sahara Desert Trek
Rediscover true adventure in the awe-inspiring Sahara Desert. This five day trek covers 100km; passing through Morocco’s forbidding landscape punctuated by peaks, gorges, dunes and oases. At night, sleep under Africa’s star strewn skies and enjoy traditional Berber hospitality.
8 days | Morocco | Challenging
Great Wall Discovery
Conquer the imperial masterpiece of the Ming dynasty as you test yourself against thousands of challenging steps along the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, with time to explore the cultural highlights of China’s historic capital – Beijing
9 days | China | Challenging
Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek
From the madness of Delhi, to the beauty and tranquillity of the Indian Himalaya, this unique expedition is the perfect introduction to India. Follow the Uhl River, through the heart of the world’s highest mountain range in Dharamsala, where the Dalai Lama and the centre of the Tibetan community are located.
11 days | India | Challenging
MOUNTAIN TREK CHALLENGES
Mount Toubkal Trek
This challenge will have you scrambling over Northern Africa’s tallest peak – Jebel Toubkal, standing at a majestic 4,167m! We finish in the vibrant Moroccan city of Marrakech.
6 days | Morocco | Tough
Kilimanjaro Summit Climb
At a colossal 5,895m, Mt. Kilimanjaro is one of the largest volcanoes to ever break through the Earth’s crust. Trek through five incredible, unspoilt eco-systems as you follow the uncrowded Lemosho route to the famous ‘roof of Africa’
12 days | Tanzania | Extreme
PADDLE CHALLENGES
Zambezi River Challenge
Paddle your way along the border with Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, steadily heading for Victoria Falls where you’ll raft the most tempestuous rapids in the world.
10 days | Zambia | Challenging
Here is just a small selection of the trips we have on offer in 2026. For full information, click on the button below to discover where Charity Challenge could take you.
Don’t see you favourite overseas challenge date live yet? Our team are working hard behind the scenes to get these live in the coming weeks.
Once you’ve booked, don’t forget to check our Tips and Advice section on the website to help you prepare for your adventure.
