I have been a runner for very many years but 25km is much longer than I've ever run before. I'm running the additional 4km to the 21km of a half-marathon to celebrate the 25 years Kidasha has been working to help children who live in poverty, abuse and neglect in urban slums in Nepal, one of the poorest countries in the world. (See kidasha.org to learn more.) Extended lockdown restrictions in Nepal during the pandemic made working very difficult or impossible and plunged thousands of families into even greater poverty. Now faced with escalating food and fuel costs, recovery is even harder and the risk to children’s wellbeing even greater. Furthermore, as the cost-of-living crisis bites closer to home, its predicted that charitable giving will plummet. This coupled with already reduced investment by the UK government in foreign aid, means Kidasha’s task is even harder, at a time when its work is more vital than ever.

I have seen first-hand the appalling situation endured by so many children in Nepal and the incredible work that Kidasha tirelessly does to help them. So, whilst I realise that there are currently many causes worthy of help, I am keen to do what I can to help Kidasha continue its vital work and would really appreciate it if you would support me by making a donation.