GLL and Diabetes UK Partner to Promote Activity in Cornwall for 2026

A partnership between GLL and Diabetes UK is set to return in 2026, with the aim of getting more people across Cornwall active while raising funds for a major health cause.

For the third year running, the social enterprise will support two of the charity’s key fundraising challenges, Swim22 and the One Million Step Challenge, encouraging people to take part and improve their health and wellbeing.

Leisure Centres Across Cornwall Involved

Operating under the Better brand, GLL runs leisure centres in Bude, Liskeard, Saltash, St Austell, Bodmin, Newquay, Truro, Helston and St Ives.

Throughout 2026, the organisation will promote the challenges to its 800,000 members nationwide through social media and within its centres, aiming to get as many people involved as possible.

To support those taking part, GLL will offer:

• Discounted leisure centre memberships

• Free online and in-person training events

• Expert tips and advice to help participants train safely and effectively

Two Challenges Designed to Get People Moving

Both events are designed to encourage regular activity while raising funds for Diabetes UK.

Swim22 challenges participants to swim the equivalent distance from England to France at their own pace over 12 weeks, starting from 22nd March.

The One Million Step Challenge begins in July and encourages participants to walk an average of 10,800 steps a day over three months. Shorter distance options are available for both challenges, with support provided by Diabetes UK.

“Fun and Motivating” Way to Stay Active

James Curry, GLL’s Head of Service in Cornwall, said: “We’re proud to support Diabetes UK again and help even more people discover the benefits of getting active.

“With millions of people in the UK at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can play an important role in reducing that risk. Challenges like Swim22 and the One Million Step Challenge make it fun and motivating to move more while raising funds for an incredibly important cause.”

James Beeby, Director of Engagement and Fundraising at Diabetes UK, added: “We’re delighted to partner with GLL again, to inspire more people to take on a new fundraising challenge.

“Being physically active plays an important role in overall health and wellbeing and events like Swim22 and the One Million Step Challenge make it fun, achievable, and rewarding for everyone involved. Across the UK, Better leisure centres support their members to improve their physical and mental health, and it is this shared aim that makes this collaboration so fitting.”

Rising Diabetes Figures Highlight Need for Action

According to Diabetes UK, 4.6 million people in the UK are now living with a diagnosis of diabetes, the highest number on record.

The charity warns that without the right care and support, the condition can lead to serious complications. Each week in the UK, diabetes is linked to 184 amputations, more than 770 strokes, 590 heart attacks and 2,300 cases of heart failure.

Funds raised through both challenges will go towards Diabetes UK’s work, including research and support for those living with the condition.

For more information about the organisations involved, visit GLL or Diabetes UK.