The University of Cumbria has launched a fundraiser in aid of the 2021 BRIT Challenge that supports young adult mental health.

Coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Week, the university is asking its students and staff to form teams and log 2,021 miles whilst raising vital funds for mental health charities.

Activities to reach the 2,021-mile target can take many forms and take into account the abilities of those participating. For instance, miles that people can log can range from hand-cycling and household chores like hoovering to paddle-boarding, kayaking and more traditional forms of exercises such as walking, jogging and swimming.

The events are in aid of the BRIT 2021 Challenge where universities and colleges host their own inclusive feel-good fundraising events to improve people’s mental health and fitness whilst raising money for the British Inspiration Trust (BRIT) and its charity partners.

Charities supported by the BRIT 2021 Challenge are Papyrus, student minds, The Charlie Waller Trust, and Nightline Association.

The BRIT Challenge is supported by famous sporting figures including Paralympians and Olympians and follows last year’s successful Row Britannia challenge. At the University of Cumbria, it will run for eight weeks and conclude on 1 July 2021.

Professor Brian Webster-Henderson, Deputy Vice Chancellor at the university, said: “We are wanting to encourage and inspire as many staff and students as possible to join in with the campaign so that we can get active. We’re encouraging people to continue to do what they’re doing now and ask if they can do a little more.

“The theme for this year is nature. This is an ideal opportunity to get out and about, and enjoy the natural area that we are fortunate to have on our doorsteps in Cumbria while getting moving with family and friends and record all the steps for the BRIT Challenge. We only have to record 2,021 miles between all our campuses to achieve our goal.”