I was scrolling through my Instagram feed, when a post from Matt Inwood stopped me in my tracks. I took part in Matt’s iPhone photography course, and I’m used to his mesmerising foodie shots drawing me in. But on this occasion it was a bowl of plain white rice and a glass of water - the one on this post (thanks, Matt). He is taking part in this year’s Ration Challenge, raising money for Concern Worldwide. It got me thinking (but not for too long, or I’d talk myself out of it) and next thing I know, I’m all signed up.

So from 13th-19th June - a whole seven days - I’ll be eating the same rations as a Syrian refugee. This consists of:

• 1.92kg plain white rice

• 400g plain flour

• 170g dried lentils

• 330ml vegetable oil

• 85g dried chickpeas

• 400g tin of kidney beans

• 120g tin of sardines

To say I’m nervous is an understatement. I’m going to be hangry. I’m going to have a blinding caffeine/sugar withdrawal headache. But I’m doing it as a message of solidarity and to raise much-needed awareness and funds. Refugees have already been living a nightmare and now, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, many more will face devastating hunger.

I set up my fundraising page lastnight, and I’ve already raised over £400 which is enough to provide food for two Syrian refugees for an entire year. So a massive THANK YOU to everyone who has donated. I really appreciate it, and it will spur me on through the challenge.

If anyone else would like to donate, my fundraising page is here: rationchallenge.org.uk/becca-perl