Hi, my name is James, and until this year I was a self confessed sofa slob. As part of a New Year's resolution, I decided to embark on the 'Couch to 5K' programme to get fit and to help deal with a chronic health condition. I was planning to run (or walk!) the Great Manchester 10K as part of the University of Manchester 'Purple Wave', but after spotting the opportunity to run for the Michael Carrick Foundation, as a Manchester United fan, I made the obvious choice. I am being supported by my brilliant girlfriend, Jo, who brings some much needed running experience to this attempt...

The Michael Carrick Foundation works to develop opportunities for children to feel safe, valued and inspired to achieve so that they can make the best of their life and fulfil their full potential.

• 3.7 million children currently live in poverty in the UK - over a quarter of all children
• Cuts in youth services in the previous two financial years amount to £123 million
• A total of 377 children’s centres in England were closed between 2010 and 2016
• 1 in 3 children are overweight or obese by the time they leave primary school
  

Our Vision: Communities where all children can reach their full potential.

Our Mission: To create opportunities for children to feel safe, valued and inspired to achieve.

We will do this by working in partnership with community organisations who need help to deliver much needed services for young people and by developing innovative campaigns and events to inspire people and galvanise support.

As one of the most decorated football players in England, Michael has 5 Premier League titles, 1 FA Cup, 3 League Cups, 6 Community Shields, 3 Champions League Finals and 1 Club World Cup under his belt. After 701 career appearances for club and country, Michael knows what it takes to succeed and the barriers that many children will face. As a result he is dedicated to providing financial support to community services that will give children in deprived areas the best opportunities and has launched the Michael Carrick Foundation.