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Frequently asked questions
Fundraising
When does the fundraising need to be paid in by?
For all overseas events, your minimum sponsorship must be paid to Scope eight weeks before you go on the event, because this is when we pay our tour operators. We have to make sure that every person we pay for has actually raised all the money. When you explain these reasons to your sponsors they are usually very understanding.
How do I go about raising the minimum sponsorship?
Once you have signed up for a Scope event, we will send you a comprehensive sponsor pack to make your fundraising as easy as possible. Have a look at our fundraising tips page for a few ideas. Scope's experienced fundraising staff are only a phone call away and have lots of ideas to help you.
What happens if I can't raise the money?
If you cannot raise your money we will ask you to make up the balance yourself, in order to keep your place on the event. If you do have to cancel from the event, we can refund your sponsor money directly to your donors if required. Please do phone us for advice and ideas, if you are experiencing difficulties.
Why would people want to sponsor me to take part in a Scope challenge?
Because not only are you dedicating all your spare time to fundraising the minimum sponsorship, which is a challenge in itself, you are also undertaking a difficult and intense physical challenge, which will require lots of training beforehand, plus both physical strength and mental courage whilst on the trip itself. If Scope didn't have people like you raising such vast sums of money for us then we wouldn't be able to support as many disabled people as we currently do. You are also helping us to spread the word about our work by talking to people about Scope before and after your challenge.
Before you go
How much do the events cost?
There are costs of travel, accommodation, equipment and so on. Some of the event costs will be met from your registration fee and the remainder will come from part of your sponsorship. This varies according to the destination and full details are included in the information pack for each event. If you feel unhappy that part of the money raised is used to meet your costs, you may like to think about paying a part or all of the costs yourself. Please make sure your sponsors are aware that part of their sponsor money may be used to meet costs.
Do I get a chance to meet other people before we go?
We organise an Information Day a few months ahead of each trip. This is a really good opportunity to talk about fundraising, meet other Scope participants and hear more about the event itself from the tour operator.
How much training will I need?
Your fundraising pack will include a training guide, which you must follow in order to enjoy the event. Have a look at our trekking / cycling / running / skiing training pages for more detailed information on fitness and how to train.
What's provided?
For most Scope events flights, accommodation, experienced guides, meals and any permits or equipment (such as bikes and skis) are provided. Each event information pack will have exact details.
What do I have to provide?
After paying your entry fee you'll need your kit, any vaccinations or visas and airport departure taxes. You are also responsible for making sure you have comprehensive personal travel insurance. Don't forget some spending money so you can buy souvenirs and a few drinks.
How do I know what kit to bring?
We'll provide you with a packing checklist detailing everything you'll need. For basic ideas, see our packing guidelines.
On the trip
What's the average age of people on the events?
We have participants of all ages from 18 - 70. The majority will be between 30 and 55.
Will I be able to keep up?
Your event is not meant to be a race - the aim is to finish, at your pace. You will be put in a group of your own choice. You don't need to be an athlete but you should be aware that Scope events are designed to suit people who are reasonably fit and have trained to take part.
Where will I stay?
Accommodation is shared. For weekend events we usually stay in hotels, and for the longer events we use a mixture of hotels and campsites.
What's a typical day like whilst camping on an event?
After an early wake-up call you'll be brought tea/coffee and a warm bowl of hot washing water to your tent. You'll then have breakfast with the rest of the group in the mess tent and get ready to start trekking/cycling by about 8am. You'll trek/cycle for about four hours in the morning stopping frequently for water breaks and rest stops before having lunch with a break for at least an hour. You'll then trek/cycle for a further 3/4 hours before getting back into camp, where you'll have a chance to relax and unwind with the rest of the group before dinner, and then after a hard day, you'll be ready for an early bed.
How safe are the events?
We work with extremely reputable UK-based tour operators, who are experts in organising charity events overseas (check out our partners pages). A representative from the tour operator, plus Scope staff, accompanies every trip and the events are led by experienced, English-speaking local guides. A doctor or medic accompanies the ten-day treks and bike rides.
Can I extend my stay after an event?
Yes. We will put you in touch with the tour operator once you have signed up to make any travel arrangements. You will need to get in touch with them well in advance and remember places may be limited.