Children in Need Challenge Squad fundraising update as concerns raised over 'gruelling' project
Four youngsters are undertaking inspiring challenges to raise money for the charityChildren in Need‘s latest Challenge Squad fundraiser aired on The One Show last night (November 13), with viewers sharing their concerns about the “gruelling” fundraiser.
In the lead up to the BBC’s Children in Need special, which airs tonight (November 14), The One Show has followed a group of young people who have embarked on an incredible fundraising project.
Four youngsters who have benefitted from BBC Children in Need funding are undertaking inspiring challenges to raise money for the charity. To date, they have raised a staggering £1.1 million.
Children in Need Challenge Squad latest – Jude’s story
Earlier this week, viewers were “in tears” watching 21-year-old Lloyd, who only recently learnt to ride a bike, complete a demanding triathlon challenge.
Yesterday (November 13), it was the turn of Jude, a 20 year old who was born with spina bifida. The condition severely affects Jude’s mobility, with doctors once telling his parents he might never walk.
In spite of this, Jude joined BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox on day four of her Great Northern Marathon Challenge, walking further than he ever has before.
Sara told Vernon Kay on Radio 2 afterwards: “I always excited about this morning because I got to do Jude’s Challenge. He was brilliant, and he was super strong, he’s smashed out 8K this morning, with spina bifida and all the complications that can bring with your movement and your walking. So what an absolute legend.”
Viewers react to Challenge Squad update
Many viewers were compelled to take to social media in awe of the achievement.
“What an absolute legend and a very brave guy Jude is. Well done young man,” one person said on X. Another commented: “Emotional right now, go Jude and Sara.” “Jude!!” Gushed a third user. “So inspirational.”
However, there were a few viewers who expressed concern over the taxing nature of the challenges.
“Is it wrong to ask these quite severely disabled young people to undergo such gruelling challenges?” one person queried. “I know they want to do it, and it’s for a good cause, but is it fair to ask them? Just asking.”
Someone else added: “Why do you make the Challenge Squad tasks so gruelling? Jude has problems walking so you make him walk and walk.”
What’s next for the Challenge Squad?
Each member of the Challenge Squad is supported by a project funded by BBC Children in Need. This week, they are stepping into the spotlight to show what they can achieve with determination, courage and the right support.
Two more Challenge Squad members will take centre stage on Children in Need tonight.
Eloise, supported by East Ayrshire Young Carers, joins the cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express for a high-speed stage performance. Kat, a talented singer-songwriter born with cerebral palsy and supported by Music Fusion, performs a duet with Sam Ryder.
Read more: Tom Fletcher ‘excited’ to perform with son Buzz for ‘truly special’ moment on Children in Need
