I'm running the Virgin London Marathon on 23rd April 2017. This will be my first ever marathon ( and quite possibly , my only ever marathon) . I'm running on behalf of Carers Worldwide, a charity based in my hometown, Welwyn Garden City. 

Carers Worldwide works to support carers who are looking after family members with chronic illnesses, disabilities or mental health needs, and also to raise the profile of carers so that governments and NGOs take carers' needs into account in planning their programmes.  Their work is focused in developing nations where there is often no formal support system for carers.  At the moment the charity has projects in India and Nepal and is hoping to set up projects in Kenya and South Africa. 

Even in a first world country like the UK I'm aware of how tough it can be for carers - not only looking after a family member, but battling through bureaucracy and multiple agencies to access help and support. I can't imagine what it must be like in a developing nation with no support structures.  Carers Worldwide can make a real and sustainable difference with small amounts of money - just £10 can send a child carer to school for two months, while £50 can help a carer to develop a livelihood to lift their family out of poverty for good.  

I'd be very grateful for any amount you can spare to support Carers Worldwide.  If you can get to London on 23rd April,I would love you to come and cheer me on!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.