ABM, a provider of facility, engineering and infrastructure solutions had 35 team members take part in the Cumbrian Challenge in support of Walking With The Wounded.

The military charity – Walking With The Wounded – provides support for veterans and their transition from military to civilian life, a mission closely aligned with ABM’s ongoing support of the armed forces community.

As a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, ABM is said to be committed to ensuring both veterans and serving armed forces personnel are encouraged to join the ABM family across all lines of business and that they are supported in their working life as valued team members.

The Cumbrian Challenge

The Cumbrian Challenge takes place at the Lake District and is said to be a formidable test of endurance, teamwork and resilience.

ABM’s participants got split into nine teams and undertook three different routes, ranging from ‘The Peak’ – a 14km hike with a 761m ascent – to ‘The Tougher’ – a 27km hike with a 1,411m ascent – navigating the incredible yet demanding landscape of Grasmere.

In 2024, ABM achieved Gold Employer Recognition Scheme status as part of the company’s commitment to the Ministry of Defence Armed Forces Covenant in the UK.

ABM’s participants have raised more than £23,500 for Walking With The Wounded.

ABM also has its own Armed Forces Working Group said to promote a culture that values the contribution and leadership of service personnel and ensures veterans challenges and opinions are heard regularly and action is taken to continually provide support.

“Building camaraderie”

James McGrattan, QHSE Regional Manager and Veteran, ABM shared his experience leading one of the teams with his support dog: “Having made the transition from military to civilian life myself, I understand the struggles many veterans face – issues that Walking With The Wounded works tirelessly to address.

“The Cumbrian Challenge offers a powerful opportunity to connect and share such experiences whilst building camaraderie, resilience and a sense of achievement with my colleagues.

“I couldn’t have completed it without Dakota. As always, she was by my side, calming me in stressful moments and lifting the spirits of the entire team from start to finish,” commented McGrattan.

Breaking records

Tony Hulton, WWTW, CEO said: “What an incredible Cumbrian Challenge weekend and the real highlight was breaking our fundraising record.

“This will benefit even more veterans and their families, helping them to get back on their feet and retaking their place in society.

“We can’t do this without our business friends and supporters and we are so grateful for ABM’s involvement at this year’s event.

“Every participant pushed their limits and strove to reach the finish line and by taking part, every ABM team has made an invaluable contribution,” finalised Hulton.

The ABM fundraising page is still active – to make a donation, click here.