Staff duo to dive in for sponsored swim to support unpaid carers.

Two dedicated members of staff are taking the plunge to do a sponsored swim to raise funds for our work supporting unpaid family and friend carers.

Jane Christou, from our Administration Team, and Julie Hayes, our Hub and Volunteer Co-ordinator, will take on the swimathon challenge on Friday 5th December 2025.

Their goal is to swim at least 64.4 lengths (one mile) in an hour, and they have a target of 66 lengths.

They are doing the challenge at John Warner Sports Centre in Hoddesdon, where they usually swim two to three times a week. The centre has kindly provided the free use of two lanes.

The pair, who haven’t done a sponsored swim before, would welcome sponsorship. Whether it is 10p, 50p, or £1 per length, or a set amount, every donation will help them power through the water and make a real difference for carers.

You can donate online at https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/jjswim or contact us.

The duo said: “Through working at the charity and being carers ourselves, and benefited from information and support available, we know what a positive difference access to the right support and advice can make for carers. Please sponsor us and help make sure no carer feels isolated.”

Jane, who has worked for Carers in Hertfordshire for five years, came up with the idea for the challenge to combine one of her interests with helping others. She said: “The swimathon is about challenging myself, inspiring others and making a positive difference to carers’ lives. When I shared the idea with Julie, she was happy to get involved and join me.”

Julie, who has worked at the charity for 11 years, said: “Swimming is something we both enjoy, so turning it into a challenge and supporting Carers in Hertfordshire during its 30th anniversary year, felt like the perfect fit.”

If you have a caring role and want to find out how we can support you or you want to make a donation, or sponsor Julie and Jane’s fundraiser, you can email us at contact@carersinherts.org.uk or call 01992 58 69 69.