I am taking part in the Great North Run 2021 and hoping to raise some money to support the North East Disability Swim Club (NEDSC). NEDSC was established in 2010 and are a small unfunded club that offers learn to swim sessions and competitive training for disabled children and young adults. Some swimmers have represented Great Britain and many have achieved success in local, county, regional and national competitions.

Head coach Jo Barber is extremely passionate about disability swimming. She has supported my daughter Ellen Stephenson (European and World Female Mosaic Down Syndrome Champion) for many years and her support is invaluable. Jo often gives up her weekends and is prepared to travel miles to support her swimmers at county, regional and national Para-swimming competitions. Without Jo, many of our swimmers would not have a coach with them at these events.

I am hoping by raising a small amount of money this will help the club recover from losses occurred through the Covid pandemic so our swimmers can continue to train at NEDSC and feel supported in their journeys to reach their goals.