Now entering its 19th year of support for the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), industry members will once again head to the Lake District on 14 November for the 38th Climb of Life (COL).
This year’s theme – Never Doing Things by Halves – reflects a key milestone: exactly half of COL’s fundraising years have been dedicated to the ICR, helping to finance its world-class discovery programme into new treatments for multiple forms of cancer.
With more than £2 million raised to date, COL is firmly established as one of our sector’s proudest philanthropic achievements. Last year alone, climbers collected over £93,000 in sponsorship monies and organisers hope to approach this impressive total again in 2025.
Facing the challenge
Over 100 participants, split into groups, are expected to take part to tackle some of the Lake District’s toughest peaks. The trek is physically demanding, often continuing long after sunset, but spirits always remain high as each step taken and each donation received helps bring hope to the one in two people who will face cancer in their lifetime.
COL ambassador Graeme Chapman MBE continues to inspire with his unwavering commitment, while event organiser Philip Lawson and his team of volunteers are tirelessly conducting the essential groundwork behind the scenes. This year’s roster will once again feature strong support from across the industry as well as leading ICR researchers. As Lawson notes: “It’s incredibly motivating to walk alongside those on the front line of cancer research. The conversations we share remind us exactly why we do it.”
Workplace360 Chief Commercial Officer Jade Wilson, who first joined COL in 2024, adds: “The challenge was tough, but every minute felt like a tribute to individuals we’ve lost and a show of support for those still fighting.”
For the greater good
The Swan Hotel in Grasmere will serve as the climbers’ base camp, offering a welcome refuge after the day’s exertions. For many, however, the real comfort lies in knowing their efforts fund life-saving breakthroughs.
Lawson emphasises that the backing of the workplace supplies sector is vital to COL’s success, particularly in today’s challenging economy. Companies such as Avery, ACCO Brands, BOSS Federation, Durable, CTS Wholesale, Hamelin, Office Power and Workplace360 are among those leading the fundraising.
“Our industry stands shoulder to shoulder. Both companies and individuals put aside the day-to-day pressures to focus on something much bigger than ourselves,” says Wilson.
To take part, email Philip Lawson at climboflife2025@gmail.com. To donate, please visit justgiving.com/page/col2025
