National and independent merchants and suppliers to the trade are urged to get involved in Mad March Million before it kicks off off on 1 March.

A month-long, sector-wide movement challenge is urging merchants and suppliers to help collectively achieve one million steps throughout March 2026.

Rainy Day Trust, in partnership with Wellbeing People, has launched the initiative which focuses on a simple commitment: each team member dedicates just one per cent of their wakeful day (ten minutes) to movement.

These small daily actions, when repeated consistently across teams, create measurable wellbeing benefits whilst strengthening industry connections. The challenge is entirely inclusive - designed for all ages, abilities, and fitness levels - ensuring every team member can participate meaningfully.

Businesses from across the builders merchants sector already signed up, from head office teams to branch networks and suppliers as the industry comes together.

This is your last chance

Whether you're a national merchant, independent branch, or supplier to the trade, Rainy Day Trust would love to see your team join the movement before it kicks off on 1 March.

Rainy Day Trust will handle everything - all the materials and plenty of support along the way. One person internally must be chosen to champoion the cause and Rainy Day Trust will then guide them through every step.

Why should your organisation participate?

Strategic benefits:

  • Demonstrates tangible commitment to employee wellbeing with minimal resource investment.
  • Fulfills social value and ESG commitments through measurable health and community impact.
  • Enhances employer brand as an organisation that genuinely cares about its people.
  • Strengthens industry relationships through collaborative, cross-sector participation.
  • Supports the Rainy Day Trust's vital work helping colleagues in crisis across our sector.

Employee impact:

  • Builds sustainable daily movement habits through achievable, accessible activities.
  • Creates team connection and camaraderie through shared purpose. 
  • Improves physical and mental wellbeing through consistent, gentle activity.
  • Fosters positive workplace culture through friendly competition and collective achievement.

Measurable outcomes:

  • Trackable participation rates and engagement levels throughout March.
  • Visible leaderboard positioning showcasing your organisation's commitment.
  • Recognition opportunities through social media, PR, and sector communications.
  • Optional fundraising component to amplify charitable impact.

What your team receives:

  • Full registration support and welcome materials.
  • Branded resources for internal promotion (posters, social media graphics, templates).
  • Daily progress updates and access to leaderboard.
  • Recognition through medals (Bronze/Silver/Gold) for maintaining daily streaks. 
  • End-of-challenge celebration and achievement certificates.
  • End of campaign participation medal.

Key information timeline:

  • Registration period: January - 20 February 2026.
  • Challenge dates: 1 - 31 March 2026.
  • Results celebration: Early April 2026.

Next Steps:

  • Approve team participation (eight to ten people).
  • Nominate team leader to coordinate registration.
  • Register via dedicated webpage by 20 February.
  • Attend February launch webinar.
  • Launch internally before 1 March.

Any questions or ready to register?
Register here: https://wellbeingpeople.com/rainy-day-trust-mad-march-million/
Contact Anna Skeats, CEO, Rainy Day Trust Email: anna@rainydaytrust.org.uk