RoadPeace, the national charity for road crash victims, is thrilled to announce the outstanding success of the RoadPeace Challenge 2024, which took place across the UK from May 13-19.
Supporters logged a staggering 16,958 miles in just seven days – far surpassing the original target of 1,766 miles, set in honour of the 1,766 people killed in road crashes in the UK in 2022.
Hundreds of police officers, firefighters, safer roads partnerships, schools, businesses and communities took part in this year’s challenge, demonstrating incredible commitment and dedication.
From running, cycling and walking to horse riding, and even kayaking, participants came together to show their support for RoadPeace and to honour the memories of those tragically killed in road crashes.
RoadPeace, the national charity for road crash victims, provides support to people bereaved or seriously injured in road crashes, and engages in evidence-based policy and campaigning work to fight for justice for victims.
Nick Simmons, of the charity, said: “This year, the RoadPeace Challenge truly became what it was set up to be: an event to bring together emergency services, bereaved families, businesses, schools, and communities in a united stand against road death and injury. The collective efforts and solidarity shown during the week of action highlight the importance of working together to create safer roads for everyone.
“We are so grateful to everybody who took part or who made a donation in support of the activities taking place across the country.”
Jo Shiner, Chief Constable of Sussex Police, and the National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Road Policing, was so delighted by success of the RoadPeace Challenge that she helped to publicly reveal the final mileage total, and congratulate everybody who took part in the event. She recorded this video today: https://youtu.be/t7Isg9HSakE
Chief Constable Shiner said: “The RoadPeace Challenge 2024 has exceeded all of our expectations. We aimed to honour the 1,766 people who lost their lives on UK roads in 2022, by walking, running, cycling or horse riding 1,766 miles in seven days.
However you supported the RoadPeace Challenge 2024, please know that you made a significant difference.
“Finally, thank you to RoadPeace, who work tirelessly to support people bereaved or seriously injured in road crashes every day, of every week, on our roads.”
The RoadPeace Challenge also helped to amplify the efforts of the Forget-me-not Families Uniting group, formed with the support of RoadPeace, in April. The group is now made up of more than 100 bereaved parents, who are campaigning together for Graduated Driving Licensing. RoadPeace strongly supports their campaign.
Many members of the group attended the RoadPeace Challenge finale event at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, on Sunday (May 19, 2024), which provided an opportunity for members of the group to meet face-to-face for the first time and attend a special ceremony dedicated to their campaign.
Donations can still be made in support of the RoadPeace Challenge 2024 and all who took part here: www.justgiving.com/campaign/roadpeacechallenge
