A BRADFORD housing association has challenged its staff to get moving and help raise money for support dogs.

Horton Housing Association, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, has set a target for its employees to run, cycle, swim, row or walk 30,000 miles and for every mile completed, it will also pledge to donate 10p to the up to a maximum of £3,000.

In an online vote, staff chose Support Dogs as the beneficiary of their 30,000 mile challenge. The Yorkshire-based national charity trains specialist assistance dogs to improve the independence and quality of life for people living with the most challenging medical conditions.

Epilepsy Seizure Alert Dogs help people with epilepsy by picking up physiological changes in their owner before they experience a seizure and warn their owners up to 50 minutes before a seizure happens.

Paul Gartland, the chief executive officer of Horton Housing, said £3,000 would pay for the 24/7 care and support of a dog and its owner for 18 months.

He added: "I am delighted that such a worthwhile cause will benefit from our 30,000 mile challenge. These dogs help to increase people’s independence, confidence and self esteem, which is very much at the heart of what we do as well.

"We are hoping to work closely with the charity throughout the year to organise some events for staff and clients and we hope that the money raised will help the charity continue its excellent work."

Other dogs the association will be helping fund are highly trained autism assistance dogs working with children as a calming influence in situations they find difficult, like going out to shopping centres. They help to reduce behavioural outbursts and keep the children safe, but also help improve their social skills allowing families to enjoy trips and days out.

And money will also go towards dogs who help people with of disabilities live more independently by helping with everyday tasks such as picking up objects, opening and closing doors and assisting with dressing and undressing.

Support Dogs fundraising manager Danny Anderson said: "We are thrilled that Horton Housing has chosen to raise funds for our charity during their anniversary year. We are looking forward to seeing both feet and paws taking on the 30,000 mile challenge to raise vital funds and help more people to have their quality of life transformed by our charity."

Horton Housing is a charitable organisation which provides a range of housing support services from several locations across Bradford, Kirklees, Calderdale and North Yorkshire.