I am going to try to run the Manchester Marathon in October - for 3 reasons:

1) It’s a personal challenge and way to focus on my own self care and recovery through this pandemic;

2) In memory of my Dad, who came from Uganda in his early 20s and settled in Manchester. I was later born in Manchester, and I love the the way it has led and inspired so much positive change in the world;

3) I want to raise vital funds for Simon on the Streets (info below):

PROVIDING HOPE FOR THOSE WITHOUT A VOICE

Simon on the Streets offer unlimited emotional and practical support for homeless and vulnerable people to enable them to achieve their goals.

A HOMELESS CHARITY BASED IN LEEDS, BRADFORD AND HUDDERSFIELD

Their services are delivered on an outreach basis directly on the streets across all three areas. This ensures they are supporting individuals who are homeless and may not be engaging with other services. They deliver outreach during the day but also in the evening and in the early hours of the morning when many of the most vulnerable are struggling. 

THEY SUPPORT THE UNSUPPORTED

They recognise that emotional support has a high-value and understand that building a quality relationship with clients will underpin any support given. This emotional support evolves over time to underpin more practical activity around advocacy and liaison with other, specialist services. They want to support an individual to achieve their own goals and aspirations whatever they may be.