Do Your Own Thing is an opportunity for anyone to get involved in fundraising no matter their skills or abilities and the charity has a ‘wall of inspiration’ on its website as a starting point for ideas. 

Naomi Richards, fundraising officer at Diverse Abilities, commented: “The great thing about this, is that the only limit is your imagination! So far, we’ve had people running laps of the garden through to training for marathons, hosting virtual pub quizzes and taking part in weight loss challenges. We’ve got fundraising support and advice for anyone who wants to have a go, and make sure everything fits within the changing COVID legislation.”

Suggestions for activities include learning new skills or languages like Makaton, step count competitions as part of National Walking Month, fancy dress or dress down days, and Eurovision sweepstakes. The charity also has places available for Wing Walks and Skydives during the year, and has contactless collection pots available for businesses, shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

Amelie Mortimer, aged 7 from Blandford, has raised £40 by running laps around the back garden. “I wanted to raise some money for charity because I know it is really important now more than ever.”

Pictures of fundraising can be shared with the hashtag #TeamDA. Naomi added: “We can’t wait to see everyone getting involved and watch the different paths they’ve taken to raise money, our supporters have been instrumental to keeping us going over the last year – they’re a real innovative bunch and we can’t thank them enough!”

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/dyot to find out how to get involved.