Staff, residents and supporters of HICA Group, a Yorkshire headquartered not-for-profit social care provider, have raised more than £2,600 from its annual Tour De HICA event. They reached an impressive 1,962 miles in just 24 hours to support wellbeing initiatives across the organisation.
During the challenge, five bikes and a treadmill at HICA’s central office were kept in near-constant motion, with teams cycling through the day and night.
Among the standout efforts was Pat Godney, the 72-year-old mother of information and systems manager Paula Jory, who clocked up 60 miles. Also stepping up was Tanya, a care worker from HICA at Home Grimsby, who arrived with her son at 1.30am after travelling from Cleethorpes and cycled for four hours straight.
HICA Group CEO Terry Peel was one of two staff members who stayed for the full 24 hours. He said: “The energy and commitment on display was incredible. People came in on their day off, turned up with family and returned in the evening after work just to contribute a few more miles. It was a real team effort and one that makes a difference to the lives of the people we care for.”
Residents played an important part too. The Hollies, a Hull-based care home, helped launch the challenge, with one resident clocking up the first six miles, while residents from Isaac Robinson Court, another one HICA’s care homes in Hull, helped bring the event to a close.
The bulk of the mileage was completed at the Hesslewood main office, where teams racked up 1,210 miles. Other contributions came from the HICA at Home offices at Doncaster, Grimsby, Chorley and HICA at Home Hull who clocked up 668 miles, and also at care homes Elm Tree Court, The Grange, Overton House and The Hollies who managed 84 miles.
Reflecting on her mum’s involvement, Paula Jory added: “It was brilliant to see so many people getting involved whether for five minutes or five hours. My mum was determined to play her part and just kept going! The whole event had a real buzz about it.”
The event also received generous backing from corporate supporters including Avendra, CareHome Life, Gordon Solar and Power Solutions, Weborchard, and Sylvester Keal.
All funds raised will help enhance the lives of residents and service users across HICA homes and services, supporting activities, trips and specialist equipment.
