I'm joining Scope's Lockdown Legends and taking on an epic fundraising challenge this February! A New Year and a new lockdown. None of us want to be here, but disabled people have been particularly hit hard by the pandemic. 1in 4 disabled people feel forgotten by the government. Scope's helpline has been busier than ever at a time when the shops have had to close and vital funds being lost.

I'm very lucky that I have been able to work from home the whole time, but there are parts of my life that I really miss while in lockdown. Mainly I miss the having access to the gym where I can keep fit and active. It's been a challenge to find accessible exercise, especially in the wet and cold of January. While I can get out and go for a walk, I need to sit down on a regular basis before carrying on. I've really noticed a lack of benches and seating along public footpaths and in the streets. For me, it's not so easy to just say that I am allowed to do one piece of outdoor exercise every day. It's taken a lot of research to find accessible walks and even purchasing a walking stick/stool so I can walk in places where there are no seats.

I'm taking this opportunity to raise awareness of the right of disabled people to take part in sport and exercise. That's why I am going to walk 35km throughout the month of February.

Over 14 million people in the UK are disabled and they have been amongst the hardest hit by Coronavirus. Scope is needed now more than ever. Their services are seeing unprecedented demand, their helpline is providing a listening ear and their online community is keeping people connected through lockdown. The pandemic has been devastating for Scope. The charity has seen its 195 shops close, fundraising events cancelled and marathons postponed. During lockdown, Scope's income has fallen by around £1.2 million a month. I'm fundraising so Scope can continue to be there for disabled people and their families during the pandemic and beyond. Please support me in my challenge!