A lot of what we do is driven by you and the challenges you set yourself as an individual or as a team at NEXT. We love to showcase the work that you do for a charitable cause, whether that be a fundraiser, a volunteer project or anything in between. Be inspired and if you think you're ready for a challenge of your own, and would like to feature on this page.
And for further inspiration and to view colleagues previous challenges click Historic Employee Stories
We previously shared that we had some Marathon 2026 places reserved exclusively for NEXT colleagues fundraising for the National Deaf Children's Society. We're pleased to share details about the three colleagues that have been selected. Neil Scott, VM & Operations Manager, Lucy Holtom Ecommerce Marketing Executive and Matt Patten, Merchandiser - Licence Upholstery. Getting a Marathon Place isn't just about the physical preparation it's about raising funds for the charity too! If you're able and wish to support them with their fundraising please see the information below.
Hi everyone,
I’m incredibly excited to share that in April 2026, at the ripe old age of 53, I’ll be taking on the challenge of running the TCS London Marathon 🏃
I’ll be running in support of the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) — a fantastic charity working to create a world without barriers for deaf children and young people.
The work of the NDCS is incredibly important to me. I experienced hearing difficulties growing up, and I have also supported children with disabilities, so I know how vital the charities work and support can be.
The NDCS supports over 50,000 deaf children and their families across the UK by:
•Providing vital emotional and practical support
•Campaigning for better education and healthcare services
•Offering advice and guidance to families
•Running fun events and activities for deaf children and young people
Every pound raised helps ensure deaf children have the same opportunities as their hearing peers.
Training for a 26.2-mile marathon is a huge personal challenge, but knowing it will make a real difference keeps me motivated every step of the way.
I would be so grateful for any sponsorship you’re able to give, no matter how big or small. Your support will help me reach my fundraising goal of £3,000 and directly support the life-changing work of the NDCS.
Thank you so much for reading, supporting, and cheering me on 💙
Together, we can make a real difference.
With thanks,
Neil
Thank you for your support. Please click here for my fundraising link.
And to find out more about the National Deaf Children's Society click here
I’m incredibly proud and excited to share that in April 2026, I will be running the London Marathon. Having only ever run a half marathon, taking on my first full marathon will be a huge (and quite daunting) personal challenge for me!
I will be running in support of The National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) - A remarkable charity dedicated to supporting deaf children and their families. Their work is incredibly important in breaking down barriers and helping deaf children build confidence, independence and a strong sense of identity, so they can thrive in all aspects of life.
This marathon isn’t just about the miles I’ll be running — it’s about making a difference. And knowing I’m doing it to help deaf children have better opportunities, stronger voices, and brighter futures will carry me through every mile.
Click here if you’re able to donate, share, or support me in any way, it would mean the world.
Every contribution helps empower deaf children and their families.
Thank you so much for being part of this journey — I can’t wait to take you all along with me.
Lucy x
And to find out more about the National Deaf Children's Society click here
The 2026 London Marathon will be my fifth marathon, but this one will be a bit different — it’s my first time running for charity, and I couldn’t be prouder to support the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS).
NDCS does incredible work supporting deaf children and their families across the UK — breaking down barriers, providing resources, and making sure every deaf child has the same opportunities as their hearing peers. As someone who’s always loved a challenge, this feels like the perfect way to combine my passion for running with a cause that truly makes an impact.
Training is already underway, and I’m finding plenty of motivation knowing every mile will help create a brighter, more inclusive future for deaf children.
If you’d like to support my run (and help NDCS continue their fantastic work), you can sponsor me via my fundraising page here
Thank you for your support and to find out more about the National Deaf Children's Society click here
Twelve years ago, mouth cancer treatment left my father alive but unable to eat, drink, or speak. In 2021, I lost my mother; though cleared of bowel cancer, she struggled deeply with the physical and emotional aftermath due to a lack of support. This year, I am running for them and for colleagues currently facing cancer. I am raising funds for Penny Brohn UK because they provide the critical support survivors need to navigate life and learn to live again after treatment. If you would like to support Katy's fundraising see her justgiving link here And for informatin about the charity Penny Brohn Uk click here
I was lucky enough to have secured a ballot place in the iconic London Marathon 2026. I have decided to use this experience as an opportunity to raise vital funds for the fantastic charity which is Andy’s Man Club 🖤in memory of my Uncle Mark who sadly passed away in 2015.
I started running 12 months ago and not only has it improved my physical strength and abilities, it has also improved my mental health and provides a profound sense of accomplishment.
My longest run so far has been 21 miles, and I am looking forward to completing the 26.2 mile journey on Sunday 26th April.
Andy’s Man Club offers empowering peer to peer support in encouraging men to open up and talk about their feelings and to process life traumas in a safe space. The funds raised will go towards expanding its nationwide reach increasing the number of men who can access this fantastic service.
If you would like to donate the link is here And for everything you need to know about AndysManClub click here
I'm taking on the Peak District Mighty Hike, pushing my limits to raise £250 in support of Macmillan Cancer Support, because no one should have to face cancer alone.
I'm doing the mighty hike again for this amazing charity as I lost my Nan back in November 2019, my Grandad in 2025 and my partner continues with his battle everyday. The support and comfort we get from this amazing charity is incredible. Words really can't describe what they do. Please help us raise the money they need to help them continue to do such a fantastic job. If you're able to help please see my fundraising link here To find out more about Macmillan click here
The Online Teams went all out to celebrate International Women's Day from donning tshirts to encourage inclusivity and sharing bakes whilst raising funds for Refuge. The teams raised over £400. To find out more about the charity Refuge and the work they do click here
The International Team produced lots of Goodies to share with a gargantuan Easter buffet. All departments were encouraged to buy to help colleagues to raise vital funds for their local Foodbank in Leicester.
I am running the Tokyo Marathon 2026 to support the Charity Right UK in their vital mission to provide school meals to children in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
A significant focus of this campaign is supporting children in Palestine, where life is marked by conflict but also by remarkable resilience. Through school meals, emergency food packs, and hot meals for displaced families, Charity Right provides the stability and nourishment these children need to grow and learn.
If you would like to support Mubs in his fundraising for Charity Right click here
For more information on Charity Right UK click here
The NEXT Home team have come up trumps again and have donated the money raised from their recent sample sale to Rainbows Children's Hospice and to The Next Chapter Rescue and Rehoming Centre. A small self funded rescue based in Countesthorpe, Leicestershire. Shelley Page and her team of volunteers run it, and it currently houses over 40 horses and ponies. The centre is also home to sheep, ducks and a variety of other animals. The aim of the centre is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome the animals in its care, but sometimes this is not possible. Some animals require lifetime medication, some are mentally damaged by past trauma, and others are very old. These animals will stay at the rescue for life.
Catherine and her partner Chris became involved with The Next Chapter after they rehomed two ponies from them in 2021. They continue to fundraise for the rescue by running Christmas and Easter hamper raffles, hosting afternoon teas in the summer, selling homemade jam, chutney, and crafts and selling unwanted clothing on Vinted.
The rescue is now completely full but this doesn't stop Shelley from receiving daily calls from people begging her to take their animals.
For further updates about the work of The NEXT Chapter click here and for more information about Rainbows Children's Hospice click here
Congratulations to our International team who raised over £800 for the charity Openhands based in Leicester. They offer hot meals, food, clothing, furniture and household goods for those in need. They held a series of raffles which contained lots of surprises and edible goodies. Our winners were Ali, Sazmin, Bhavini, Civan, Julija, Sarb, Khaled, Addy, Arig and Amanda from CAIT some of whom feature below.
2026 is a massive year for our family. My wife and I currently have our daughter in our care, and this is the year we will officially and legally adopt her. She has already changed our lives in ways we never imagined and she is the inspiration behind every step I’ll run this year.
Our journey has opened our eyes to the reality of the care system. While we are so lucky to have our daughter home with us, we know there are so many children still waiting for the love, stability, and support they deserve. No child should ever have to navigate neglect or abuse.
I’ve chosen to support Barnardo’s because they are a lifeline for the UK’s most vulnerable children. From supporting those in the care system to helping families in crisis, Barnardo’s works to ensure that every child has a chance at a bright future. I want to help them continue that work so that more children can find the safety and love our daughter has found with us.
The Challenge
Starting January 1st, 2026, I've committed to run at least 5km every single day for the entire year. Whether it’s rain or snow, I will be hitting the pavement for 365 consecutive days to raise funds for Barnardo’s.
If you are able to donate, please know that every penny goes toward helping a child in need.
To help support Josh click here
To see more inspirational stories check out your colleagues fundraising stories through the years.