ESL September Steps Challenge
This year, we took part in a September Steps Challenge – a service wide wellbeing and fitness challenge to raise money for the EPIC Charity, who give grants to Bristol’s care-experienced children and young people.
Colleagues from all areas of our service were invited to donate and join randomised teams. The prize for the winners…an afternoon tea at City Hall!
Four groups took part, using an app on their phones to effortlessly track their steps. All teams showed their willingness to get involved right from the start. The sense of competition was fierce over the four-week challenge, with weekly leaderboards being shared to keep everyone updated on their progress.
Colleagues were encouraged to spend more time getting active through simple things such as taking the stairs instead of the lift or going out for a walk at lunch time, or bigger actions such as walking to work instead of getting the bus.
Some colleagues reflected that taking part in the challenge had unexpected benefits for them, such as boosts to their mental health by being out in nature and spending time on themselves.
One colleague said: “Taking part in the September Steps Challenge has helped me build positive habits and stay active. Tracking my progress was key—it kept me accountable and motivated every day. Walking isn’t just great for physical health—it’s a real mood booster and perfect for catching up on podcasts! Now, I’ve even started a family group, and we’re all aiming for that daily 10K sweet spot.”
At the end of a competitive month, all four teams had performed brilliantly, but our top team racked up an incredible 1.5 million steps! Joanna P from the On Site Bristol team topped the individual leaderboard with over 474,000 steps to her name – congratulations to our winners in Team 1!
Our colleagues showed great team spirit and also went above and beyond with their generosity. Our winning team selflessly donated the cost of their afternoon tea to our donations, bringing the total amount raised to £125!
A huge thank you to all ESL colleagues who donated and took part in the challenge – we hope you feel inspired to keep building your steps and getting active.
If you would like to know more about the EPIC Charity, or donate, you can do so via their website: EPIC Charity – Bristol
