Housing group employees walk 20 miles in honour of veterans

Nine housing employees raised over £1,000 as they embarked on a 20-mile walk from Worcester to Evesham.

The Rooftop Housing Group employees took on the challenge on Friday (November 8), raising £1,037.10 for Worcestershire-based military charity Stepway.

The walk was in recognition of Remembrance Day, and honoured veterans, active service members, and their families.

The participants carried a combined weight of 40 kilograms, the equivalent to what soldiers might bear during fitness training and combat, completing the walk in seven hours and 10 minutes.

The charity assists veterans and their families in transitioning to civilian life.

Sophie Round, one of its veteran champions, said: “This is an incredibly impactful experience.

“Starting at the Norton Barracks Memorial and finishing at Evesham War Memorial, I was reminded of the miles soldiers had marched in search of safety and security.

“Walking as a team and carrying the shared weight deepened my respect for those serving or have served.”

The fundraising walk is part of the charity’s broader commitment to supporting the armed forces community.

As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, the Evesham-based housing association has actively worked on projects like St Helena Court in Norton to provide housing for veterans.

Rooftop was awarded bronze status in the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme in September 2023.

On Monday (November 11), Rooftop residents and staff gathered to remember and honour those who have served and made the greatest sacrifice to fight for our freedom.

The housing group’s Retirement Living and Housing with Care schemes across the area participated in remembrance services, and enjoyed cake and refreshments afterwards.

Rooftop board members also attended wreath-laying ceremonies in Evesham and Pershore, honouring veterans in the wider community.

In their Evesham office, they created a poppy window display filled with heartfelt messages from colleagues and community members honouring veterans and those who sacrificed.

Boris Worrall, chief executive of Rooftop, said: “We’re honoured to support veterans through our housing projects and other initiatives.

“This Remembrance Day, we remember the sacrifices made by so many and reaffirm our commitment to supporting our armed forces community.”