Leisure centres across 15 locations in Oxfordshire have teamed up with Diabetes UK to support the charity’s health-focused fundraising initiatives.

The Better leisure centres, run by charitable social enterprise GLL, intend to promote the charity's Swim22 and the One Million Step challenge to their 800,000 members.

These two challenges, conceived by Diabetes UK, are part of an effort to encourage exercise, raise funds for research, and promote both physical and mental health.

The first challenge, Swim22, urges participants to swim the width of the English Channel over the course of 12 weeks.

The second, the One Million Step challenge, asks supporters to walk an average of 10,800 steps each day for a three-month period.

According to Diabetes UK, there are currently 4.3 million individuals across the nation living with a diabetes diagnosis.

The charity estimates that another 2.4 million people are at a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and an additional 850,000 might be living with undiagnosed diabetes.

People living with diabetes are at risk of serious complications, including strokes, amputations, and heart attacks, if proper care is not taken.

Matt Simmons, Better's partnership manager in the region, said: "Diabetes is one of the fastest growing chronic conditions in the world.

"We also know that weight loss can in many cases, help to lower blood sugar levels and even put type 2 diabetes into remission."

He continued: "Not only do we support the important research work that Diabetes UK undertakes, we also want to encourage those living in our local communities to use our facilities to help improve their health and wellbeing.

"Taking part in the Swim22 and One Million Step challenges are a fantastic way to stay motivated, raise funds for a worthy cause and support health and weight loss goals."

James Beeby, director of engagement and fundraising at Diabetes UK, added: "Whether you want to get more active, improve your overall health or challenge yourself to achieve a fitness goal, our virtual events are a great way to do so.

"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.

"We’re delighted to be working with GLL this year to enhance our supporters experience and to help us reach new audiences who could benefit from our challenges."

Supporters are provided with discounted membership, free training events, tips and advice to prepare safely and effectively for these challenges.

Funds raised from these events will be directed towards the charity's work, including research and support for those living with diabetes.

For more information, visit the Diabetes UK website.