The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on charities and like many others, Melanoma UK is suffering.

The cancellation of thousands of fundraising events has left a huge hole in charity income contributing to an overall massive £4 billion shortfall for the crucial work being done for so many people.  The 2.6 Challenge has been created to help fill a shortfall in fundraising.  The 2.6 Challenge began on Sunday 26th April - what should have been the date of the 40th London Marathon.

Melanoma UK has decided to take part in The 2.6 Challenge and we would love you, your family and friends to join us.  Not only will your support help fill a shortfall in fundraising, but it can also ultimately help save the UK charity sector.

Taking part is simple.  All you need to do is think of sponsored activities based around the numbers 26 or 2.6. This could be donating £26 (or however much you can afford), hosting a 26-question quiz, doing 26 keepy-uppies in a row, 26 press-ups, or jogging 2.6 miles.

As long as it follows the government’s advice on exercise and social distancing, you can be as creative as you want.

But this is not just about fundraising. We have decided to springboard our Melanoma Skin Cancer Awareness campaign a little early this year to coincide with the 2.6 Challenge launch.

From now and throughout the month of May, Melanoma UK will be providing lots of information to heighten awareness on the importance of skin checks and how early detection can help save lives.

Even though many of us are separated right now, we can still come together to help raise money, raise awareness and reduce incidence rates of skin cancer.

Follow Melanoma UK on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn

Help to inspire the nation by sharing pictures or videos of your challenge on social media using the official hashtag #TwoPointSixChallenge and be part of the campaign.