The COVID-19 pandemic has created a very worrying situation for UK charities and the countless people who depend on them. Official estimates have suggested that charities in the UK stand to collectively lose £4bn as a result of the coronavirus. This is where you come in: you can help to ensure that the charities that mean the most to you continue being able to provide their essential support by taking on the 2.6 Challenge.

The challenge

The 2.6 Challenge will launch on Sunday 26th April – the date the 40th London Marathon was due to take place. From Sunday, we're asking you to join thousands of others across the country in dreaming up an activity based around the numbers 2.6 or 26 and fundraising or donating to Prisoners Abroad. The 2.6 Challenge is open to anyone of any age – the only requirement is that the activity must follow the Government guidelines on exercise and social distancing.

How you can get involved

Once you have your idea, the next step is either to create a fundraising page that you can share with friends and family, or if you'd prefer you can simply donate on our website. In the spirit of the 2.6 challenge we are suggesting donating £26, but anything you can give will make a big difference for people whose lives have been affected by overseas imprisonment. Once you've completed your activity you could even challenge a friend.

Donate to Prisoners Abroad

Set up a fundraising page with JustGiving

What £26 could mean for British people imprisoned abroad

Every £26 will help to enable Prisoners Abroad's life-saving work protecting the human rights of British people imprisoned overseas. Your generosity will also help us to continue tackling the isolation felt by prisoners detained abroad. It's your support that makes this vital work possible.

Ideas

If you're struggling for inspiration here are some ideas we've had:

• You could go for a 2.6 mile run, or a 2.6 kilometre run if that's more your speed
• A 26-person video chat could be a great way to catch up with everyone you're missing all at once
• You could do 260 minutes of yoga spread out over a number days
• Writing 26 birthday cards ahead of time would be a challenge where everyone benefits
• If you really want to challenge yourself you could try running or riding 26 miles over the course of the coming week

Whatever you decide to do don't forget to let us know on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, or by emailing [email protected]. We'd love to be able to cheer you on!

Still not found an idea that's taken your fancy? You can also head to the ideas section on the official Two Point Six website.