As a local Gateshead charity we do everything in our power to stand up for equality and strive for our vision of a fair society for all, with lives well lived, but there's so much more we need to do.

The longer term impact of COVID-19 is only beginning to unfurl across Gateshead and we know that as support is scaled back and the suspension on evictions is lifted, there will be an even deeper impact on Gateshead families, their wellbeing, mental health and inevitably leading to poverty and homelessness. Many families will, as a result of COVID-19, experience new challenges that they simply don't know how to navigate. They need social welfare advice and we can provide it with your help.

So what am I doing?

On Sunday 13th September, I am doing my own little Great North ... Walk. I'm walking from my home in North Shields, along the North Tyneside coast to St Mary's Lighthouse, and then turning on my heel and walking all the way back. That's approximately 13.1 miles or a juicy little half-marathon.

"But it's only walking, Neil?!"

Aye, to you athletic, active slender souls, but for my more rotund, waddling physique it's quite a challenge. Like a 'Watch out for my training regime on Twitter' challenge!

"So how much do you want?"

Never ask me that question! Seriously though, every pound I can raise will go towards providing advice for people in one of the parts of the North East hardest hit by COVID-19. We know that things are going to get very rough over the next few months and we have to be best placed to help people get through it. With my plodding determination and your generous donations, we can do it.

"But what do I get?"

Apart from the wholesome warm glow of altruism? Well, you can join me on the day as I will be broadcasting regular updates of my trials via social media. So if you want to see a very large man, walking a very long way in what will inevitably be drenching rain, get donating!