The Challenge That Lies Ahead

Starting from the supportive hub of Midcounties Coop in Stanford in the Vale, here’s Jane’s ambitious solo cycling plan:

Cycle Commute #1 – Wednesday, 27 August: Out-and-back to Witney Turning Point, around 26.2 miles. ✅ Completed 

Cycle Commute #2 – Tuesday, 2 September: Round trip to Aspire on Osney Lane, about 33.3 miles. ✅ Completed 

Cycle Commute #3 – Friday, 17 September, to Ruskin College, approximately 38.42 miles return (route-dependent). ✅ Completed 

Cycle Commute #4 – A Thursday (date TBD): To Didcot Turning Point, roughly 44 miles, with a scenic—and challenging—detour: 12 miles via the Sustrans route from Wantage plus some hilly terrain.

This will be Jane’s very first cycling challenge—her fitness past includes a half-marathon way back in October 2019 and a spirited 2.6-mile morris dance on May Day 2020, which raised about £900.

Why It Matters

Jane’s ride aims to spotlight a worrying trend: charitable giving and funding are under strain, making it increasingly complex for frontline organisations to support individuals in need.

Consider these sobering facts:

In 2024, only 50% of UK adults gave to charity—a drop from 58% in 2019, representing around four million fewer donors. (The Guardian, CAF Online)

Following the pandemic, financial support has declined sharply, while demand for services continues to rise. (GOV.UK)

UK charities face mounting pressure from reduced grants, rising costs, fewer volunteers, and fierce competition for a shrinking pool of donations. (efa-net.eu)

Even vital providers like hospices are cutting services, as government funding covers only about 30% of their costs. (The Guardian)

These statistics make Jane’s challenge more than a personal feat. It’s a beacon for a broader issue. By supporting her, you're helping to stand up for those striving to uplift communities every day.

How You Can Help

Let’s cheer Jane on (and keep her pedals turning fast!) by donating—however big or small—to support her ride. Your generous contribution will not only motivate her physically but also signal that we care about sustaining and empowering charity efforts, especially amid funding challenges.

Donate Now and Keep Her Moving!

Suggested donations:

£5 – A cheer for the first ride

£20 – Fuel for the long Ruskin College route

£50+ – Hills, sweat, and ultimate support for charitable empowerment

In Summary

Jane Bird, Specialist Education Advisor with Aspire Oxfordshire, is embarking on her first solo cycling challenge this autumn.

Her four rides span 26 to 44 miles, mixing early-term commutes and scenic detours.

The mission: to spotlight and push back against the decline in charitable giving, which is impacting communities across the UK. 

Backed by compelling evidence, from fewer UK donors to the increasing fragility of charities. This challenge is about more than miles; it's about hope.

Together, we can pedal toward brighter days for charities and the people they serve. Thank you for your support and encouragement for Jane, and for all of us.

Jane Bird