National homelessness charity Crisis is calling on Londoners to brave the icy waters of their local lido to raise vital funds and help people build a life beyond homelessness this winter.
After 60 courageous swimmers faced Brockwell Lido in December, people are now invited to take part in the Icebreaker challenge at Parliament Hill Lido on Saturday 18th January from 9:45am.
A week later, on Saturday 25th January from 8:15am, the Crisis Icebreaker at Tooting Bec Lido will once again be hosted alongside The SLSC UK Cold Water Swimming Championships organised by Crisis supporters, the South London Swimming Club. Amongst the buzz of the championship heats, local stalls, and refreshments, Crisis is urging people to face the freeze in the unheated lido to help end homelessness.
Participants of the Icebreaker challenge can either join the event solo, or team up with friends and race in the relay. With registration costing £15, all money raised will go towards Crisis’ year-round services that provide vital support and help transform the lives of people experiencing homelessness.
Rob Halkyard, Executive Director of Brand, Marketing and Fundraising at Crisis, said: “Whether you decide to tackle our Icebreaker challenge alone or face the freeze with friends, you will be helping someone begin their journey out of homelessness this winter.
“No one should be forced to spend night after night on our streets, sofa-surfing or stuck in mouldy B&B’s with no end in sight. Yet more than a quarter of a million households across Britain are experiencing the worst forms of homelessness.
“Thanks to our brave and generous fundraisers we can help people find their own stable home, access education and healthcare, and rebuild their lives away from homelessness for good.”
Registration for the Icebreaker challenge is also open for people who would prefer to organise their own cold-water challenge. Crisis is encouraging people to join the Do It Yourself (DIY) challenge and face the freeze however they like, wherever they are. Fundraisers who dive headfirst into their Icebreaker challenge will also reap the rewards of cold-water swimming, as evidence suggests it can benefit both our mental and physical health.
