Thousands of people up and down the county are taking part in Wiltshire’s Big Pledge, but it is still not too late to get involved, with two months to go until the end of the campaign.
Wiltshire’s Big Pledge, organised by Wiltshire Council, runs until Wednesday 30th September and challenges people to get healthy, volunteer or make a positive change. This year everyone taking part can commit to any of 12 pledges.
More than 12,000 people have got involved in this year’s campaign. Pledges range from taking the ‘sugar-swap challenge’ or ‘eating a rainbow’, to volunteering in the community, becoming a dementia friend, or pledging to take an activity challenge.
Maggie Rae, Wiltshire Council corporate director said, “We’ve been inspired by how many people of all ages have got involved in this year’s campaign. It has really helped people think about their own health and wellbeing and what more they can do to support their community.
“It’s not over yet though. There’s still plenty of time for people to get involved and I look forward to seeing even more pledges being made.”
Keith Humphries, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for public health, said, “Whether you want to lose a little weight, get more active or perhaps volunteer at a local club, I hope Big Pledge gives people the encouragement and support they need to make a big difference.
“The summer is the perfect time to make a pledge and see what you can achieve.”
Margaret Winskill is one such person who made a pledge. Margaret pledged to become more dementia aware and attended some training. She said, “Attending the dementia friendly training was a real eye opener in helping me understand and be more proactive in the community. I just wish I had done this training before I cared for my mother in law who had Alzheimer’s.”
Wiltshire’s Big Pledge website contains a host of information to help people make their pledge. It can be found at: services.wiltshire.gov.uk/Wiltshires BigPledge/BigPledge/ChooseYourTypeDetail
The Facebook page can be found at www.face book.com/WiltshireBig Pledge and people should use #BigPledge on Twitter.
