I am a new mum on maternity leave (we had our first son Joshua 3 months ago) from the teaching and music professions and wanted to try to support nurses during these hard times. 

I am hugely aware as to how lucky we are to have our wonderful NHS and hear many stories of what is happening repeatedly in hospitals around the country; my brother in law and cousin are both doctors. However, it is through my fabulous mother in law, Dame Donna Kinnair and her work at the RCN, that has brought my attention to the nurses. Many nurses are working away from their families, looking after our sick loved ones, tirelessly and selflessly and many without the PPE they need. You only have to watch the news to know the battle is ongoing.

As ‘just a mum’, I had to ask myself what I could do right now to raise funds for these fabulous nurses. The answer to me seemed easy - walking. Like so many others, the daily walk is keeping my family going, a chance for some physical and mental freedom from staying at home. We have challenged ourselves to walk 5km five times during this latest lockdown.

Can other families/people do the same? If not 5km, then even just 1km and only once! Perhaps the younger members of the family could take their favourite toy, hence the title of this page. And if you don’t live in the countryside, then a walk around the nearest roads.....Then donate what you can to this magnificent cause. The minimum is £2, but perhaps you could donate a pound for every km walked....£5 for 5km?

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thanks again and enjoy your lovely walk and  fresh air!