People looking to start 2022 with a new challenge can brave the freeze by taking a cold-water swim to raise money for Crisis, the national homelessness charity.

The charity’s annual Icebreaker Challenge raises money to support Crisis’ work to help end homelessness.

Crisis helps people experiencing homelessness all year round, supporting individuals every step of the way to leave it behind for good.

The DIY Icebreaker Challenge is running until February 28 and sees people setting their own challenge such as taking a cold shower every day or going for a cold-water swim.

The Daily Dip team, a group of more than 30 people across the country, are braving a cold-water swim every day during January to support Crisis. This is the fifth year in a row they’ve taken on the Icebreaker Challenge and in this time they’ve raised an amazing £90,000.

Among the Daily Dip group are experienced cold-water swimmers who say it’s had a positive impact on their wellbeing.

Jess Mortimer said: “The first time I tried a winter swim I had been struggling with my mental health and I had heard the cold water could help. I was hooked straight away and haven’t looked back.

“I love the way the cold water makes me feel, getting in feels like pressing a reset button on life. Cold water teaches me what I am capable of. I challenge my mind and body in the water.

“To anyone getting started I would say to take it slowly, go with a friend and enjoy. And take lots of layers!”

Thao Nunns, who’s part of a ‘Daily Dip’ team, started cold-water swimming to help combat the pain caused by endometriosis.

“I’d heard cold water really helps with pain relief and mental health,” said Thao.

“I started in March 2021 and felt like a new me after swimming and the relaxation has helped me big time with my anxiety.

I’ve met so many lovely people with the same mindset and same love for cold water. We have a big community where we’re all supporting each other.

“If you’re new to cold water swimming, try in spring when it’s slightly warmer. Start slowly by only swimming for a short amount of time then build up your strength by going regularly to get used to the different temperatures. Wear lots of layers, a hat, scarf and gloves and bring a hot water bottle for cold days.”

For anyone thinking about trying cold water swimming for the first time, here are some tips to consider.

• When starting out, you could find your local venue such as an outdoor swimming pool for organised sessions.

• To prepare, make sure you have your kit sorted. Swim socks and gloves can help to protect your hands and feet against the cold.

• Take along a friend or family member. They can cheer you on and be ready with the towel after the swim as well as helping to make sure you stay safe.

• Once you’re ready to get into the water, do so gradually. Although jumping in may be tempting, getting in slowly will help your body adjust to the cold water.

• Start off by swimming gently. This will give you time to overcome the way your body initially reacts to the cold.

• Once you’ve finished your swim and you’re out the water, try to warm up gradually. Your body will cool down after getting out so change into warm, dry clothes immediately, using lots of layers to wrap up and keep warm.

• Why not take a hot drink with you for after the swim - this will help you to warm up after!

• It’s best to avoid having a hot shower straight away and to wait until you’ve warmed up.

• Put yourself in a warm place such as your car or somewhere under cover after your swim, instead of standing around somewhere cold.

Remember:

• Seek help immediately if you feel very cold, woozy, nauseous, disorientated, dizzy or faint.

• Check local advice before choosing where to swim.

Matt Downie, Chief Executive of Crisis, said:

“The Icebreaker Challenge has been going strong for ten years and we’re grateful to all the people who have taken part over that time to raise money to support Crisis.

“It is a fantastic way for people to show their support for ending homelessness while taking part in a fun challenge and sharing the experience with friends.

“Winter is a particularly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and the pandemic has highlighted how vital it is for everyone to have a safe and secure home. By joining in with the Icebreaker Challenge, you’ll be helping Crisis to support people to leave homelessness behind for good.”

To sign up for the Crisis Icebreaker Challenge visit crisis.org.uk/icebreaker