How do I raise the money and where does this go?
You will receive a fundraising pack once you register with ideas, guidelines and tips to help you meet and even beat your target. You will be surprised how much you can achieve once you set your mind to it, with a little help and inspiration from us.
Set up your free online fundraising page and talk to other fundraisers online at myactionaid.org.uk We can also put you in touch with past participants to get some tips from those who have ‘been there’ and have their own invaluable advice. See our fundraising page for more information.
If you haven’t raised the required sponsorship by the deadline date (10 weeks before your event), you can put in the money yourself, and if necessary pay this back from the money you go on to raise.
How do I prepare and get fit?
When you join the ActionAid team you will be supported throughout. We'll send you a fundraising and information pack containing ideas and inspiration to help you reach your target. Your pack will also include kit lists, training advice and more. We will also be in regular contact with you through newsletters and updates and are more than happy to answer your questions and concerns and offer any advice and help we can to assist you with your preparations.
What kind of people take part?
Everyone who signs up has two things in common - a sense of adventure and the desire to help those less fortunate. The group will be made up people from all backgrounds, abilities and ages. Whilst some take part with friends, most people come on their own, so it's a great way of meeting new people. You will find that the group quickly bond and support each other throughout the challenge.
You have to be 18 (or 16 if accompanied by an adult) and there is no upper age limit. If you have any existing medical conditions or are over 65 you are required to obtain consent from your GP.
Our trips are designed for people of average fitness who have carried out some training in advance. You will receive detailed training guidelines and support to help you prepare.
How much do I have to pay?
To reserve your place we ask you to pay a registration fee of £300 (can be paid in two installments) and then raise a minimum sponsorship target (this varies between trips). Your registration fee is non-refundable and is used to reserve your place. It goes towards covering your trip costs and is a token of serious fundraising intent.
Fifty percent of your fundraising target goes towards ActionAid's priority work with some of the world's poorest people. This could help rebuild lives after an emergency, help us campaign for access to HIV / AIDS drugs for all or simply give a community access to healthcare, education or water. The other fifty percent covers your trip costs.
How and when do I need to sign up?
Places on our events are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. We recommend you register as early as possible to ensure you have a place on the trip and to give you longer to raise your sponsorship and prepare.
To sign up you need to request your information pack, choose your First Hand Experience and then complete the registration and medical form. Please return these forms to ActionAid along with your registration fee.
Once you register you will receive your detailed fundraising pack within a week and you can start your fundraising and preparations.
If you have anymore questions before signing up please don’t hesitate to contact us on 020 7561 7571 or email emma.taylor@actionaid.org.
Who organises the travel arrangements and can I stay on afterwards?
ActionAid's First Hand Experiences are organised by experienced tour operators with social responsibility policies. This includes providing employment by working with local support staff, and following environmental care guidelines to ensure minimum impact on the natural environment as a result of our challenge.
We ask that all UK residents take out the insurance policy offered by our tour operators for each event to ensure you are sufficiently covered for our unique events.
Trip extensions can be arranged subject to numbers and flight availability.
You will be sent the appropriate extension forms once flights are confirmed.
What should I expect?
Your group will be made up of like-minded people who are passionate and committed. Together you will have an experience of a lifetime as you overcome personal challenges and meet local people, hearing how ActionAid has helped to change their lives. You will come home with memories and photos to treasure for years to come.ActionAid’s First Hand Experiences take place in developing countries which may have limited internal infrastructures and basic facilities, but this is all part of the challenge! We maintain the highest standards of hygiene possible and the standard of service, friendliness, help, care and support you receive will be second to none. On our treks you will only need to carry your day pack as your main luggage will be transported for you. If you are seeking a life changing experience for yourself and the communities you are helping, then our First Hand Experiences are for you!
