I'm running the 2012 London Marathon on behalf of Refuge.  It's a great cause and a very good charity; Refuge is the most effective national provider of services and support for victims of domestic abuse/violence. 

It is shocking and depressing to learn just how ridiculously common domestic violence is.  One in every four women in the UK will experience domestic violence at some point in their life, regardless of age and social class.  So it's almost certain that somebody you know has been affected.  The damage that it does is insidious and has widespread knock-on effects.  The more that people know about this, and the more they are prepared to challenge it, the better.  Refuge is an important advocate for change.   In the meantime, it really matters that there can be helplines, advice, support and accommodation available for those who need it.   Your donations will make a direct contribution.

This will be my first ever marathon and your donations will also spur me on to get my running shoes on and start training!

About JustGiving: 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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.