932 steps to one of the best views in London – Friday, 20 November 2026
940,000 older people in the UK report feeling lonely often. Reach new heights one step at a time so we can be there for more lonely or isolated older people this year.
The challenge: Tower 42 is one of the City of London's tallest buildings. The ascend takes you up 932 steps and 42 floors to the top, for breathtaking views across the capital. Take it on solo or rally a team of family, friends or colleagues. Every step you take is one in the right direction in the fight against loneliness. You'll be raising vital funds to help more older people who have no one else.
Why it matters: For many older people, days can pass without them taking part in a single conversation. Re-engage brings people together in person, on the phone, or online for lasting friendship and companionship, and the money you raise will help to reach more of them, all year round.
Sign up today to help reduce loneliness in later life
Santas, assemble!
It's become something of a tradition at Re-engage for our challenge events to give a nod to that jolly chap in the red suit, and for our fundraisers to dress in full Santa suits while raising vital funds for services that tackle loneliness. Like roast turkey and brussels sprouts, the tradition stays firmly in place for The BIG Climb Against Loneliness.
The BIG Climb Against Loneliness kicks off the Christmas season, which we know can be a difficult time for many older people. With fewer visitors and long, dark winter days, loneliness can set in very quickly. Re-engage Call Companions help break the silence and bring a friendly voice and a listening ear to people who’d otherwise sit in silence. We need even more volunteers to make those calls, and others to organise in-person social gatherings all year round.
That’s what your fundraising will support – 365 days of connection and companionship for older people living with loneliness.
The important bit
Minimum fundraising: We ask every climber to raise at least £150 by the end of December.
Early bird registration fee: There's a small admin fee to take part, and there are two options to choose from:
- £30: includes an event t-shirt, finisher's medal and your Santa costume
- £25: includes an event t-shirt and finisher's medal (Santa costume not included)
These are early bird prices. Fees will rise once the first wave of places is taken, so sign up early to lock in the lower rate.
The climb: Tower 42 is 932 steps across 42 floors. Most people complete the climb in around 12 to 15 minutes, though it's not a race and you can take it at your own pace.
Event times: The full schedule will be shared closer to the day.
Questions? Get in touch at fundraising@reengage.org.uk and we'll be happy to help.
Meet Frederick
Frederick started working at the Post Office as a telegram boy at 14. He served two years' National Service, then went back to the job he'd left, staying for 42 years until a cycling accident forced him to retire early. He's 93 now, lives on his own in North London, and has been in the same house for 60 years.
These days he sees very little of anyone. His daughter visits each week; beyond that, the days are quiet. So when a Re-engage Call Companion started phoning every Tuesday, it made a real difference.
"At least I know I'll get a regular call every Tuesday from Sue, and it makes me feel much better," he says. "We discuss all kinds of things, and afterwards I feel a lot better. Having someone make regular contact with you is an unexpected pleasure.
"The days are very long and I do get a bit fed up with everything. When you're younger you never think about illness or being lonely. But you get to that point where you can't do the things you used to. It's not good, but it happens.
"I've lived here 60 years. I used to know most of the neighbours, but they've all moved on. One morning I managed to go and buy a paper using my walking frame, but it really exhausted me. That's why I hardly get out.
"So the phone calls are really important to me. They're a link to the outside world. I know there's someone there I can talk to, even if it's only for a short while. I thought I'd just have a couple of calls at Christmas, but they've carried on, which really is good. I want them to carry on as long as possible."