Meallmore’s Incredible Team Effort Raises £7,000 for Cancer Research UK

At Meallmore, we believe in going the extra mile, and sometimes a few thousand more. Our recent “I Would Walk 1000 Meallmore Miles” challenge started as a simple idea to get colleagues moving and bring teams together. What happened next was beyond all expectations.

Over just one week, an incredible 313 colleagues from all 27 Meallmore care homes, our head office, and support teams laced up their trainers, set out on countless paths, and achieved a staggering total of 7,154 miles – smashing our original goal of 1,000 miles - and raising an astonishing £7,000 for Cancer Research UK.

From the Highlands to the Borders, and every community in between, colleagues, residents, families, and local supporters came together in a joyous display of community, connection and shared purpose. The challenge wasn’t just about steps and miles; it was about proving what we can achieve when we work together.

Miles That Matter

What makes this achievement even more special is the impact it will have beyond Meallmore. Thanks to the incredible enthusiasm and generosity shown during the challenge, our teams raised a phenomenal £7,000 for Cancer Research UK. This charity was chosen collectively by our colleagues and residents for its vital work in supporting individuals and families affected by cancer, as well as funding life-changing research.

Walking, running, cycling, canoeing - even wheelchair and trishaw rides - every mile contributed to our total and every step helped us raise funds for an important cause close to many hearts across the Meallmore family.

A Week Full of Colour and Connection

One of the most wonderful aspects of “I Would Walk 1000 Meallmore Miles” was how our homes embraced the spirit of the challenge in creative and joyful ways. Our activities teams from across the country organised special events in every home to keep spirits high and ensure everyone could take part. There were themed walking days, group challenges, and parties that turned ordinary hallways, gardens and local parks into places of laughter and camaraderie.

Residents joined colleagues on local strolls or enjoyed the fun from wheelchairs or trishaws, waving and cheering as colleagues clocked up steps. From scenic countryside routes to the gentle laps around our care home grounds, each mile became a memory shared.

Stories That Inspire

Behind every step were individual stories of determination, resilience, and joy. Some colleagues braved the early morning chill to cover extra miles, while others cheered on their friends from the sidelines. Many residents proudly wore step counters and watched the growing tally with eager anticipation each day.

From the youngest participant, a six-year-old, to our most experienced walker, a 102-year-old, the challenge brought together generations in a shared mission. One resident at our Auchtercrag Care Home said:

“It’s been lovely to feel part of something so big. Even though I couldn’t walk far, I was cheering the staff on and feeling proud knowing we were doing this for such a good cause.”

And the families of our residents also joined in, contributing their own miles and fundraising efforts, showing how much our wider communities believe in supporting Meallmore’s homes and causes.

A Culture That Cares

At Meallmore, our vision is to create great places to live and work, guided by our C.A.R.E. values: Creating welcoming environments, Acting with accountability, Recognising colleagues and residents, and Engaging in continuous improvement.

“I Would Walk 1000 Meallmore Miles” perfectly captures the essence of who we are as an organisation. It showcased not only our commitment to health and wellbeing but also the deep sense of community and togetherness that runs through every Meallmore home.

A Word from Our CEO

Reflecting on the challenge, Meallmore CEO Cillian Hennessey shared his pride:

“I’m so incredibly proud of everyone who took part in this amazing challenge. This result really showcases the remarkable enthusiasm and spirit of our teams, as well as of our residents and local communities who joined in the fun. There were some wonderful displays of camaraderie, determination and teamwork over the week, which was a joy to see.

While it’s typical Meallmore culture to go above and beyond, the teams and residents have really excelled themselves, smashing the target and raising a great amount of money for an important charity. A huge well done to all those who racked up these miles in any way possible, as well as a special mention to everyone who supported and donated. 7,000 miles is an enormous distance, and it really is something that we can all be proud of. The bar has been raised for next year!”

A Community of Champions

The total distance covered during the challenge was the equivalent of walking from Meallmore’s head office in Inverness all the way to Argentina in South America - a fact that has left many of us smiling at just how far our collective steps can go.

This achievement speaks volumes about the spirit of Meallmore. It’s not just about delivering exceptional care; it’s about creating a community where colleagues, residents, and families feel connected, valued, and inspired.

From our homes for elderly residents to our specialist services for adults with mental health needs or physical disabilities, everyone played a part. And together, we’ve shown that when Meallmore decides to “walk the extra mile,” we really mean it.

Looking Forward

The enthusiasm generated by “I Would Walk 1000 Meallmore Miles” has already sparked conversations about future challenges and community activities. With ideas bubbling for next year’s event, one thing is certain: at Meallmore, we’ll keep moving forward, side by side.

To everyone who stepped up, donated, cheered, and supported—thank you. You’ve proven once again that at Meallmore, we don’t just work in care - we care with heart, and we care together.

Here’s to the next 1,000 Meallmore miles - and beyond.