I initially set myself the goal of running a marathon at the beginning of this year as a way to get myself back into running and to give me a challenge to focus on outside of work. However, after a place came up to run the London Marathon on behalf of Hft it instantly became far bigger than just a fitness goal, and turned into something much more special. Not only is the London Marathon one of the most iconic events in the world meaning it is already a privilege to be running it, but being able to do so whilst representing and raising money for such an amazing charity is a real honour. 

Hft is a national charity that creatively supports more than 2,200 adults with learning disabilities across England and Wales to live the best life possible. Services range from residential care to supporting people to live independently in their own homes – from a few hours a week to 24 hours a day. Hft also helps people with learning disabilities to make friends and develop relationships, and to find work.

For those who don't know, my mum has led this charity for the past few years now, and I have seen her and those around her work so incredibly hard day in day out to be able to offer life-changing services to over 2000 adults across the UK. Social care has been hit incredibly hard by the pandemic and continuous budget cuts by the government, and it is becoming harder and harder every day to be able to offer these vital services that mean so much to so many families. The dedication and drive that my mum shows in her work has always acted as one of my biggest inspirations in life, and this is something that has only grown through her work with Hft. It would therefore mean so much to me to be able to contribute not only to the amazing work that her team and the wider charity do, but also to give back to her in some small way.

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.