MANY people are taking part in the Ration Challenge to raise money and awareness for refugees around the world.

The campaign, which was set up in 2014, involves participants being sponsored to live off the typical ration pack of a refugee, which includes rice, lentils and sardines, for a week.

Since then, over 40,000 people have signed up to take part in the challenge during Refugee Week in June, raising £5million in the process.

Mark Horsford, the chief executive of Michael House, a Boscombe-based homeless hostel, is taking part in the challenge.

He said: “I’m taking part to raise awareness of the challenges and difficulties faced by refugees over the world.

“Many people think that they can flee to another country or go back to the one they came from, but they very often don’t have a choice.

“This is a chance for us to show that we stand together with and show that we are with them and not against them.

Mark started his challenge on Father’s Day, which he said was “really hard”.

“It was difficult because on the weekends, you’re usually going out and doing things, but, in the grand scheme of things, it’s a small sacrifice and a simplistic way to raise awareness.”

Mark is also helping to raise awareness of the campaign at Michael House, as part of their monthly theme of change, with residents getting involved by creating artwork and baking flatbreads.

Mark continues: “They have been getting really involved in baking and cooking this week and some have written messages of hope for the refugees.”

To help sponsor Mark, visit my.raionchallenge.org.uk/markhorsford.