Commit to a challenge for charity in 2026
This Christmas, we’re wishing for something a little different.
We’re asking: Will you help make our Christmas wish come true by taking on a charity challenge in 2026?
Whether you choose something fitness-focused, creative, or courageously outside your comfort zone, your commitment will make a real difference for Headway Essex.
Share the idea, tag your squad, and let’s make 2026 a year of excitement, adventure, and heartfelt support for people whose lives have been impacted by brain injury.
From once-in-a-lifetime challenges to accessible and inclusive goals—there’s a challenge for everyone.
Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat Cycle
Cycle through beautiful rural landscapes dotted with ruins of ancient civilisations, and small towns where Buddhist temples contrast among well-preserved French-era buildings and ramshackle houses.
Various dates
31 January 2026 – 11 February 2026 or 26 September 2026 – 07 October 2026
Colchester Half Marathon 2026
Run the Colchester Half Marathon. This 13.1 mile race makes its way through the historic city of Colchester taking you through the City centre, and out into the scenic country lanes surrounding Colchester!
8th March 2026
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic sights in South America, and the culmination of our magnificent Inca Trail trek through the Peruvian Andes. Trek this breathtakingly beautiful route through valleys and high passes, scattered with fascinating Inca ruins.
Various dates
April – October 2026
Great Wall of China Trek
Trek one of the seven wonders of the world constructed by human hands over 2000 years ago. Flights to Beijing and accommodation are included with support crew and local guides and tour of the Forbidden City.
Various dates
18 April 2026 – 26 April 2026, 05 September 2026 – 13 September 2026 or 10 October 2026 – 18 October 2026
Snowdon Sea to Summit
This exciting adventure tackles all terrains as we journey literally from Sea to Summit! Starting in Caernarfon on the Menai Strait across from Anglesey, we cycle, trek and kayak in the wildness of Wales and stand on the highest peak in England & Wales – Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in its native Welsh language) at 1,085m.
Various dates
24 April 2026 – 25 April 2026 or 03 July 2026 – 04 July 2026
Jurassic Coast Trek
Over two days, we trek a section of approx. 23 miles, taking in some of the Jurassic Coast’s most dramatic scenery, including the renowned natural stone archway of Durdle Door and beautiful circular Lulworth Cove.
Various dates
15 May 2026 – 17 May 2026 or 04 September 2026 – 06 September 2026
An acquired brain injury can affect anyone, at any time, and most of us would be totally unprepared for its physical, emotional and financial implications.
Recovering from a brain injury can be some journey! For some there is a quick recovery path, while for others it can be lifelong. Through this time there will be inevitable ups and downs and we promise to be there to help whenever we are needed but we need your support.
“When I met people who truly wanted to make a difference in my life, who wanted to be by my side through what I was going through, I felt I was safe to let go. I could fall and know that they would catch me and have my back”
Send a Headway Essex charity Christmas card
Spread some festive cheer with a Headway Essex charity Christmas card. Explore our wonderful range of charity Christmas card designs from traditional, religious, fun and much more!
Donate today and receive a special keepsake from David Tennant.
To show our appreciation, donations of £10 will receive a special thank you by way of a card, signed personally by our Patron David Tennant.
Or give more and donations of £25 will receive a card personally signed by David Tennant and a David Tennant t-shirt.
Send a charity Christmas e-card
Send charity eCards with a donation representing the cost of traditional cards. It’s easier, better for the environment and helps support Headway Essex
Raise funds for Headway Essex simply by shopping!
Give as you Live is an online fundraising platform that allows you to shop at over 6,000 top stores and raise free funds for us as a charity. Each store you make a purchase through gives Give as you Live a reward as a “thank you”. With this reward, they make a donation to the charity of your choice!
It’s completely free to join and use.
