This January, I've given up all alcohol to raise money for Action for Refugees in Lewisham, a small and important charity providing a range of services for asylum seekers in South East London. The charity was established in 2006 as an advice service, and now also runs English classes, a club for primary school age children, and provides resources for families in pressing need. 

My fundraising efforts are part of a wider drive of 8 Civil Service colleagues to support the Charity; one we chose not only because of the important cause, but because of the impact our support can have. 

As well as donating the money I would've spent on drink, I'm asking for the sponsorship of friends, family and colleagues - for your help to keep the popular services of this locally run charity going.