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Join us on Saturday 6 September for our annual sponsored walk, Walk Together. Starting from Victoria Park in Haywards Heath at 11.30am, we have two distances to choose from: a fully accessible 5k walk and a 15k trek on mixed terrain.

Both walks promise a scenic tour around the area, highlighting the fantastic green spaces in our locality. An event like this is a great opportunity to get together with friends or family and have fun; use as a motivation to enjoy some gentle exercise; meet like-minded people and make new friends; give something back to your local community in support of local families; reflect on the positive qualities in your own life.

RRT will be providing a free BBQ at the finish line, and all paying participants receive a medal.

As a charity that receives no statutory funding, we rely on the support of our amazing community to fundraise for us.  Our full service, which is not available anywhere else in our region, costs £600,000 per year to deliver FREE for our families. Each participant is kindly asked to raise as much as they can but we hope it will be a minimum sponsorship of £125 per person to make a real difference.

Walk Together is a brilliant opportunity for friends, families and coworkers to get together and have a fun day out.

Entry for the walk is £20 and includes a medal. T-shirts are available to purchase separately to raise additional funds for the charity. Children under 12 are able to participate in the walk for free (please note that free tickets do not include a medal). For insurance purposes, free places for children must also be pre-booked.

Registration opens at 10am at the United Reformed Church Hall on South Road, Haywards Heath, RH16 4LQ. All participants must register their attendance on the day so that we may issue you with your participant number to display on your external clothing. Each time you pass through a checkpoint, your number will be logged so we are able to safely track your journey on the route. It does get busy so please arrive as early as you can to allow plenty of time to register.

The walk will commence from Victoria Park in Haywards Heath, RH16 4LR at 11:30am.

Once you have booked all your places, set up your JustGiving page to start your fundraising. We kindly ask you set your target at £125 per person.

Check out our FAQs below. For any other questions, get in touch with the team at [email protected] or call 01444 473274.

Contact us

[email protected]

01444 473274

Supporting our children one step at a time…

We will forever be thankful to DVLCC, with their support, Albert has come on leaps and bounds. Now, our little boy runs around the park, which we never thought would happen. Without the help of the charity, he just wouldn’t be where he is now.

– Lisa, Albert’s mum

Born prematurely at 25 weeks, Albert had a tough start in life. After using all the services at DVLCC, Albert is about to start school!

Albert, 4 years old

A young boy with a fixed cleft palate playing with a xylophone.

Frequently asked questions (FAQS)

Is there a minimum sponsorship?

We ask that each participant set their target at £125. This will cover the cost of one physiotherapy session here at the centre. Every penny of your donation can be life-changing for the children we support. It can mean a child taking their first step, or being able to hold a spoon to self-feed, sit unaided or play with a toy.

Our services are provided free of charge to families and we rely on the generosity of supporters like you to continue to offer our holistic service to our families. Without this help, the quality of life for the children we support, and their families, would be significantly reduced.

Where can I park?

There is parking available at:

West Car Park, Haywards Road, Haywards Heath, RH16 4HT (What3Words: vibe.legal.hammer).

East Car Park, 9 Haywards Road, Haywards Heath, RH16 4HU (What3Words: saying.burst.cared).

 

Both car parks are approximately a 5-minute walk to the registration point at United Reformed Church Hall. Please be sure to allow enough time to find a spot and register before the walk begins.

Can I get there by public transport?

Yes, the United Reformed Church Hall is a 15-minute walk from Haywards Heath train station There are also bus stops on South Road serviced by multiple bus routes.

What should I wear?

Please ensure that you dress according to the weather. Layers are best so, if the temperature rises or falls, you can take something off or pop it back on. Many people carry an empty rucksack on their back for that purpose, and also to hold a water bottle and some snacks. Please be aware that you will be walking through a lunch period if you are taking on the 15k route. Please wear tried and trusted comfortable shoes or boots. If you are buying new footwear, we strongly advise you break them in by wearing them before you do the walk and make sure they are a snug fit. People often make the mistake of thinking a ‘roomy shoe’ is a good shoe but it’s the rubbing that causes the corns and nasty blisters!

What if I am unable to make the event?

We understand that plans can change. If you’re unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we know not to expect you at registration. Please note that places are non-refundable.

What if I get lost?

If you get lost during the walk, don’t worry! We’ll have marshals stationed along the route to help guide you, and there will be clear signs. You will be provided with emergency contact numbers to call in the event of any difficulties.

Can I walk with my dog?

Yes! We welcome well-behaved dogs on leads. Please ensure they stay hydrated as we are unable to provide water stations for them on the route.

Can I bring my children or a pram/pushchair?

Absolutely! Walk Together is a family-friendly event, and we encourage you to bring your little ones along. Children under-12 are free to attend (however they won’t receive a shirt or medal). You MUST book a free ticket for under-12s due for insurance purposes. The 5k route is fully accessible and pram/pushchair friendly.

Is the walk accessible for people with mobility impairments?

As a charity supporting children with motor learning impairments, we have ensured that the event is accessible. Our shorter 5k route will be suitable for most people with a mobility impairment. Please contact the team if you have any concerns.

What should I wear for the event?

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and supportive shoes. If you have ordered one, you will be provided with a t-shirt to wear on the day of the event!

Will there be food and drink available on the day?

Yes, there will be water stations along the route to keep you hydrated, and a BBQ with refreshments will be available at the finish line. We recommend bringing your own water bottle, as well as any extra snacks you may need to keep you going throughout the walk.

What happens if it rains on the day of the event?

The event will go ahead rain or shine, so please be prepared for all weather conditions! We suggest wearing waterproofs and packing an umbrella, just in case.

Can I fundraise as part of a team?

Yes, you can join a team or create one with friends, family, or colleagues. Fundraising together is a great way to increase your impact and enjoy the event as a group!

What if I get hurt?

Your safety is our top priority. We will have first aiders on site throughout the event. If you get injured, please notify a marshal immediately. They will be able to assist you and, if necessary, help you get the medical attention you need. Always ensure that someone in your group has access to a mobile phone for emergencies.

What if I want to leave early?

If you need to leave early, please inform a marshal or event staff member before you go so we know you’re safe and know not to expect you at the finish line. We’ll make sure you can exit the route in a way that’s convenient for you, while ensuring your safety. Please keep your mobile phone with you in case we need to contact you.

Donate Today

Your £10 monthly donation could help us to keep offering the hydrotherapy sessions with the children each week

Families playing with a parachute at Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity's centre.