SEPTEMBER is going to be an exciting month for Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board in west Wales.

The charity is running a special ’60 in September’ challenge to raise money for local NHS staff and patients.

And it comes hot on the heels of the charity’s launch of a new ‘virtual’ fundraising pack, which gives tips and ideas on how to support the local NHS, even though public events still can’t be held.

‘60 in September’ has been an annual event for Hywel Dda Health Charities for several years, raising thousands of pounds for the charity.

Participants in the challenge are asked to think of an activity based around the number 60 and complete it during September.

In the past, people have come up with imaginative and fun ways to raise money, often in groups and by holding get-togethers.

So this year the charity is having to come up with ideas for people to take part while social distancing and following Welsh Government rules.

Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, Nicola Llewelyn, said:

“We hope we will get as many entrants as in previous years as this is one of our most popular fundraising events.

“But we need to make sure people are following the Welsh Government’s guidelines regarding social distancing.

“We are therefore suggesting things like 60 random acts of kindness; socially-distant tea parties for no more than 30 people (twice), solo fitness challenges involving 60 miles or kilometres, plus online auctions, virtual bake-offs and virtual quizzes.

“All we ask is that participants raise a minimum of £60 for Hywel Dda Health Charities.”

The launch of the charity’s new virtual fundraising pack has come just in time to help people with ideas and tips for safely taking part in fundraising challenges.

The pack is full of fun and creative ideas on how to fundraise for Hywel Dda Health Charities from the comfort of your own home or in your local area while observing social distancing rules.

A pack can be downloaded here: https://bit.ly/2WjUrk2

People can sign up for the ’60 in September’ challenge here: https://60inseptember.eventbrite.co.uk or for further details they can contact the charity at fundraising.hyweldda@wales.nhs.uk or on 01267 239815.

Hywel Dda Health Charities works behind the scenes to raise vital funds above and beyond what the NHS can provide in the Hywel Dda area of Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.

The charity supports a population of 385,600 and over 11,000 staff at 4 acute hospitals, 5 community hospitals and 2 integrated care centres; four managed GP surgeries, and mental health and learning disability services.

You can find out more about Hywel Dda Health Charities on the website www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk