Last Updated on October 4, 2024
In a tremendous display of teamwork, grit, and dedication, the team at Collingwood Insurance took on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge to raise funds for local charity, True Colours Theatre. The challenge saw 27 members of staff, (over 10% of the company’s workforce) come together to tackle the 24.5-mile trek, all in the name of supporting a fantastic local cause. For many, this was not only a physical challenge but also personal journey, marking the first time such a large-scale, company-wide event had been undertaken.
What did this involve?
The Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge is known as one of the toughest endurance walks in the UK. The route takes participants over three of the highest peaks in Yorkshire: Pen-y-ghent (694m), Whernside (736m), and Ingleborough (723m). It’s a gruelling 24.5-mile (38.6km) hike that includes steep climbs, zigzagging paths, and stretches of scrambling over rugged terrain.
The Collingwood team set off on Friday the 27th from our office in North Shields, arriving in North Yorkshire on the Friday evening. The team stayed at the bunkhouse, where they were joined by Kevin from Collingwood Claims Department, along with his sheepdog Bailey…
Following an early night, the team were up at 6am, meeting at 6:30am and began their journey at 7am, aiming to complete the challenge in 10-12 hours. The first peak, Pen-y-ghent, greeted the team with its steep ascent, testing their stamina from the start. As they zigzagged through the trails, the weather, although cool with a slight breeze, remained favourable throughout most of the day, aiding their efforts. Each peak brought its own challenges, but as the team neared the final mile, the sense of accomplishment was in reach.
What was the reason behind doing this challenge?
The Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge wasn’t just about conquering physical mountains – it was a way for Collingwood Insurance to come together as a team and raise funds for a charity close to the hearts of the business.
The idea came from a growing desire to encourage health and well-being within the company. Many of the staff had already been taking part in fitness initiatives, including the Million Step Challenge, and had been using lunch breaks to go on regular walks around North Shields Marina which is a short walk from our head office. With a focus on getting outdoors and improving fitness, it made perfect sense to combine their efforts with fundraising for one of our closest associated charities.
The challenge also provided a unique opportunity for people from different departments, who wouldn’t ordinarily interact, to work together towards a common goal. This camaraderie not only boosted morale within the business but also helped further build the relationship between Collingwood Insurance and True Colours Theatre.
True Colours Theatre
True Colours Theatre, based in North Tyneside, is more than just a theatre company – it’s a safe, nurturing space where children and young people of all abilities are given the opportunity to shine. Founded in 2014 by Alisar Taylor, who was inspired by her own experiences with Autism and ADHD, True Colours was created to fill the gap for young people who may feel different or out of place in mainstream settings.
At the heart of True Colours Theatre is the belief that every child deserves a place where they can thrive without fear of judgment or stigma. They focus on building confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging through performing arts. Their motto, “Friendship first, performance second,” ensures that students are supported in a caring environment, allowing them to grow at their own pace, regardless of their ability or background.
What sets True Colours apart is their commitment to acceptance and inclusion. Students are placed according to their needs and abilities, not just their age, allowing them to develop their skills and confidence naturally. Through drama, music, and dance, they create a world of possibilities for their students, helping them to discover their potential in a way that’s fun, supportive, and free from judgment.
By partnering with True Colours Theatre, Collingwood Insurance is proud to help support an organisation that transforms lives by offering children and young people a place to belong, where they are celebrated for who they are, not limited by what they’ve been told they can’t be.
Collingwood Insurance has a longstanding relationship with True Colours Theatre, and this challenge was another step in strengthening that connection. The funds raised through the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge will go directly towards supporting the charity’s efforts, helping to ensure that more individuals can benefit from their incredible work.
What 3 Peaks Challenge Meant to The Collingwood Team
Taking on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge wasn’t just about raising money but a way for the Collingwood team to push their boundaries and achieve something extraordinary together. Helen, Head of the Contact Centre and Operations, took part in the challenge and shared this upon reflection:
“This challenge was a big deal for many of us – both physically and mentally. A lot of us had never done anything like this before, and training in the lead-up was essential. We were often out walking during our lunch breaks, particularly around the North Shields Marina. It’s amazing what you can achieve when you come together as a team, and this challenge gave us the chance to connect with colleagues we might not usually work with. It was also inspiring to have so much support from the wider team, including those who came along to cheer us on, provide supplies, and even drive the mini-bus – we couldn’t have done it without them! And of course, knowing that we were raising money for True Colours Theatre, a charity we deeply care about, made the experience even more rewarding.”
Throughout the day, staff supported each other, encouraging one another to keep going, particularly during the steep climbs and rocky scrambles. The challenge was a true test of endurance, but the sense of achievement when they reached the final stretch was unforgettable. Being able to celebrate together after such a mammoth effort only added to the sense of accomplishment.
Please see the below link to our Just Giving Page if you are able to donate
https://www.justgiving.com/page/collingwood-insurance-1723213841850
