Staff and students from the Supported Internship programme based at the Seevic Campus in Thundersley raised over £700 for Havens Hospices so they can continue to care for adults and children with complex or incurable conditions.

The challenge involved climbing 4,453 steps to teach the equivalent height of all three of the UK’s best-known highest peaks: Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis.

Staff and students used their stairs at home and went to Hadleigh Castle, climbing the hills at the Country Park, tracking their steps along the way.

Natalie Cousins, Job Coach at USP College said, “We wanted to do something for a local charity and I just thought it would be fabulous if we could try and raise money virtually, as it seems such a shame that so many local charities are struggling in these unforeseen circumstances. I teach enrichment with the students once a week and we have always done lots of fundraising and so we are so pleased that we have managed to continue this in lockdown.”

Jane Hopkins, Voluntary Income Team Leader at Havens Hospices said, “To all the staff and students from the Supported Internship programme at USP College, thank you so much for completing this challenge and raising such an incredible amount of money so we can continue ‘Making every day count’ for everyone we care for.

“Our hospice care can only exist because of the support and generosity from the community and it is heart-warming to see our supporters coming up with virtual challenges to support Havens Hospices – you are true Havens Heroes.”

To take on a challenge to support local hospice care, why not consider taking on Havens Hospices’ ’30 in 30’ challenge? Set yourself a challenge and make a difference to local hospice care. For more information visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/30in30