Hi! I'm Kate - a Business Architect at Co-op. My colleagues and I are walking, running, cycling and climbing in an effort to raise £5 million for Barnardos- the UK's largest children’s charity that supports vulnerable young people. I've chosen to trek across the Sahara Desert- something that's totally outside of my comfort zone- to support this amazing cause.

When I think back to my younger self, I remember how the actions of a few caring people and institutions nudged my life onto the right tracks. It's scary to think what would have happened without that support - where would I be today, and what would my life be like? Our formative years play a huge role in how our life unfolds, and I think helping more young people out means a healthier and happier society at large.

Barnardos says: "The scale of what we do may be big and complex, but our aim is simple – to provide the best outcome for every child, no matter who they are or what they have been through."

I believe every child in the UK should be protected, well-fed, and allowed to experience life with dignity. A young person's safety, mental health, and social support should not be up for negotiation - and I feel so proud to be part of the 2025 cohort of colleagues doing their bit to raise funds for this fantastic charity.

I have always wanted to walk through the desert in punishing heat! Getting out of my comfort zone and overcoming this challenge in order to help others is such a privileged position to be in. I have no doubt that we'll raise a healthy sum and earn ourselves some proper blisters along the way!

Any amount you can afford to give is so welcome and a huge help - thank you and stay tuned for updates along the way!

Find out more: coop.co.uk/SupportYoungPeople

Read real-life stories from the people that Barnardos have supported: https://www.barnardos.org.uk/case-studies