Five of our team.
One incredible challenge.
£15,000 for Dementia UK
We're taking on the Great Wall of China to support families affected by dementia.
Our Great Wall Challenge
From caring in Cumbria to conquering the Great Wall of China.
In September 2027, five members of the Heydays Care team will swap their care uniforms for walking boots as they embark on an extraordinary fundraising challenge.
Kelly Shaw and Dawn Darby, co-founders of Heydays Care, will be joined by colleagues Gillian, Jade and Ginny as they trek along one of the world's most iconic landmarks, the Great Wall of China.
Together, they've set themselves an ambitious goal: to raise £15,000 for Dementia UK, a charity whose work is especially close to their hearts.
Every day at Heydays Care, we support people living with dementia and the families who care for them. We've seen first-hand how important specialist advice, understanding and compassionate support can be.
This challenge is our opportunity to give something back.
A cause close to our hearts
Because dementia affects the whole family.
Dementia is something we see every day through our work.
We understand the impact it can have on someone living with the condition, but also on their partners, children and wider family.
Living with dementia can bring uncertainty, confusion and changes to everyday life. But we also know that dementia does not change who somebody is.
Every person has their own personality, relationships, experiences and life story. At Heydays Care, we believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and individuality.
We also see the extraordinary commitment of families, and how emotionally and physically demanding caring for someone with dementia can become.
That's why we're supporting Dementia UK.
Specialist support when families need it most
Dementia UK is the specialist dementia nursing charity. Its Admiral Nurses provide practical, clinical and emotional support to families affected by dementia, helping them navigate the challenges of the condition.
By taking on the Great Wall, we hope to raise both vital funds and awareness of the importance of supporting individuals and families affected by dementia.
Five colleagues. One shared commitment
Meet the five members of Heydays Care who will be taking on the Great Wall of China in September 2027.
Jade
Dawn
Gillian
Kelly
Ginny
Kelly Shaw and Dawn Darby – Co-founders, Heydays Care
Kelly and Dawn lead Heydays Care and share a strong commitment to providing compassionate, person-centred care across South Cumbria. Through their work, they have seen the impact dementia can have on individuals and families, inspiring their decision to support Dementia UK.
Gillian, Jade and Ginny – Heydays Care team members
Gillian, Jade and Ginny will join Kelly and Dawn on the challenge, representing the wider Heydays team and its commitment to supporting people affected by dementia.
Together, the five are preparing for a demanding physical challenge, united by a cause that means a great deal to everyone at Heydays.
An incredible journey. A serious challenge.
The Great Wall of China is one of the world's most remarkable landmarks, stretching across mountains, valleys and rugged countryside.
In September 2027, our five team members will take on a demanding trek along sections of this historic landmark.
With steep climbs, countless steps and long days on their feet, the challenge will test their fitness, determination and teamwork.
Preparation will begin much closer to home, with training walks and activities in and around the Lake District.
And when the going gets tough, they'll have one very important reason to keep moving: the individuals and families affected by dementia who inspired them to take on the challenge.
“We know it's going to be tough! But whenever it gets difficult, we'll remind ourselves why we're doing it. If we can raise £15,000 to help Dementia UK continue the amazing work they do, every step will be worth it.”
Kelly Shaw, Co-Founder, Heydays Care
Help us reach our target
£15,000
Every donation brings us one step closer.
Whether you can give £5, £20, £50 or more, your support will help our team raise funds for Dementia UK.
Donate to our Great Wall Challenge Donations are made securely through our official Enthuse fundraising page
Donations are made securely through our official Enthuse fundraising page.
Could you help us reach £15,000?
We're inviting local businesses, community groups, friends, families and residents across South Cumbria to get behind the Heydays Great Wall Challenge.
There are lots of ways to support the team, and every contribution makes a difference.
Make a donation
Support the team directly through our official Dementia UK fundraising page. Every donation, large or small, is appreciated.
Support us as a local business
If your business would like to contribute, sponsor a fundraising activity or get involved in supporting the challenge, we'd love to hear from you.
Help spread the word
Sharing the challenge with friends, colleagues and family is another valuable way to help us reach more supporters.
Join our fundraising activities
Keep an eye out for events and activities organised by the team in the run-up to September 2027.
Follow our journey to China
There's a long way to go before September 2027, and we'll be sharing the highs, the challenges and everything in between.
From our first training walks in the Lake District to fundraising events, community support and our final preparations, we'll keep you updated as the team works towards its £15,000 target.
Five of our team. One incredible challenge.
Help us raise £15,000 for Dementia UK.
Every donation, every share and every show of support will help make this challenge worthwhile.
Support the Great Wall Challenge