Mega Miles, Mild Chaos and the British Weather

This June, I decided to take part in the Charity for Civil Servants Mega Miles Challenge, a month-long event where you set your own distance goal and try to achieve it however you like (walking, running, cycling… or, in my case, mainly walking and hoping for the best).

On paper, it sounded like a brilliant idea: fresh air, a bit of movement, and raising awareness for a charity that genuinely makes a difference.

In reality… well, this is Britain.

The Great British Summer (or lack of it)

Naturally, the challenge began on 1 June with what can only be described as a very British welcome:
☔ rain.

A lot of rain.

By 3 June, things had escalated nicely into rain + wind combo mode, the kind where you question every life choice while being gently hit in the face by sideways drizzle.

It turns out “Move Your Way” also includes:

• moving reluctantly
• moving in a waterproof
• and occasionally moving backwards in strong gusts
•  

But every mile still counts… even the soggy ones.

Why I’m actually doing this

Jokes aside, the real reason I signed up isn’t about steps or fresh air (although I’ll take both).

It’s because of the work the Charity for Civil Servants does providing practical, financial and emotional support to colleagues when they need it most.

One issue that has really stayed with me is hearing about colleagues who, after spending their entire careers in the Civil Service, are now experiencing multi-month delays in receiving their pension quotes or payments.

After years of service, that uncertainty can be incredibly stressful especially when people are trying to plan their next stage of life.

Knowing that support exists during situations like this makes a real difference… but only if the charity can continue to provide it.

That’s why this challenge matters.

It’s not just me – it’s a team thing

Another highlight has been pulling together a team through the DTG Workforce Planners Community.

We’ve created a shared team so people can take part in whatever way works for them.  

Some are:

• walking at lunchtime
• heading out at the weekend
• or just trying to add a few extra steps into their day

Others (not naming names) are probably checking the weather forecast and making strong decisions not to leave the house.

Either way — it all counts.

Making it work (despite the weather)

The beauty of this challenge is that it’s completely flexible:

• No set distance
• No fixed schedule
• No judgement if your “run” turns into a gentle wander
•  

You just set a goal and go at your own pace.

For me, that’s meant:

• Taking the dog a little further each morning & evening
• making use of lunch breaks
• Cycling to work when I can
• and occasionally convincing myself that walking to get a coffee counts as training

More than just steps

What I’ve really noticed already is how this challenge brings together:

• wellbeing
• community
• and a shared sense of purpose

Across the Civil Service, people are taking part in their own way,  but all contributing to something bigger.

And even if the weather is doing its absolute worst to sabotage us, we’re still collectively moving forward (sometimes sideways, depending on the wind).

Final thoughts (from someone slightly soggy)

Taking part in the Mega Miles Challenge has reminded me that making a difference doesn’t have to be dramatic.

It can be:

• a short walk
• a bit of fresh air
• or even just showing up despite the weather

Because at the end of the day, every mile helps support colleagues who might be going through a difficult time.

Even if that mile involves wet socks and a strong headwind.

Thinking of joining?

There’s still plenty of time to get involved, you can:

• join a team
• set your own goal
• or simply support someone who’s taking part

And if nothing else, it’s a great excuse to complain about the weather with purpose.