Kevin Armstrong

Another interest rate rise has just been confirmed, with speculation mounting again that the UK might slip back into official recession. I for one have felt the urge to batten down the hatches during these tough times, but I’ve come to realise that adding extra challenges to our lives right now can actually be a good thing to do. 

Earlier this year, when I was feeling the economic squeeze in several ways, my friend Rob invited me to join him on one of the most unappealing things I could fathom. At the very moment when I needed time to find a new job, Rob wanted me to spend more and more hours every week to train for a ridiculously long bike ride. Furthermore, at the precise point when so many people – myself included – were feeling the pinch, Rob wanted me to pay an entry fee and personally fundraise more than I ever have before. 

Despite all the reasons in my head not to enter, I've always suffered an inability to say ‘no’ to Rob, so this Sunday, we’ll be setting off on a 220-mile one day ride from Manchester to London. I might take a different view after we've attempted the ride, but right now I can honestly say that this extra challenge was just what I needed during these challenging times. 

The 1,000+ miles of training have enabled me to put things in perspective and focus on where I want to go in the future. Friends and family members I’ve met up with on rides have all said helpful things (and been impressively tolerant of my sweaty lycra). My many miles in the Yorkshire Dales have also helped me to reconnect with the precious place I do voluntary work for (and I’ve had a very cool encounter with Alistair Brownlee on a ride there too). 

Nearly 70 hours of training also gave me the time to consider what I can do to advance the cause we’ve been fundraising for: Ambitious About Autism. I’ve been doing some research about what I can do in my capacity as a Board Director and trustee of another charity to make governance and services inclusive to people with autism. I’ll definitely take these learnings into my next job whenever I get it too. 

Fundraising-wise, every donation notification I’ve had in my inbox has been a morale boost. No matter what the amount, it’s been uplifting to see that many people can still afford to give and choose to do so. If you’re able to help me reach the fundraising target for a great cause, I'll be really grateful for anything you can give via my donation page. If you’d prefer, you can extend Rob’s lead over me instead. 

For understandable reasons, charitable giving is at its lowest level since 2021, but it’s important to remember that there are still good people out there who want to support. The same can be said for businesses. Whilst many are set to feel the downturn ahead, according to the ONS, nearly 1 in 5 trading businesses expect to increase their turnover next month. 

I’m mindful that there will be lots of good people out there who really feel like a break from the bleakness. If my experience is anything to go by, ignoring instincts and taking on a new challenge might be exactly what you and your chosen charity need. I hope you’re able to tune out of the latest interest rate news today and focus on doing something positive that really interests you.