Last year, I set out to run the London Marathon for Refuge and was thrilled to take on the challenge for such an incredible cause. However, like many others, I injured myself in training and had to defer my place to 2025.

Unfortunately, despite a strong start to training this year, I sadly remain unable to take part in the marathon. Thankfully, my amazing fiancé, Marc, has stepped in and will be running in my place for Refuge.

Despite having always been aware of Domestic abuse and horrors it carries, Since joining the refuge team I have been harrowed and shocked by the statistics.

Did you know that 2 women are murdered PER WEEK in the UK by a current or former partner?

50% of recorded female homicides in the UK have been a result of domestic abuse.

In the UK, 1 in 4 women will experience a form of domestic abuse in their lifetime.

Domestic abuse and violence against women and girls will only end when we create gender equality but we can do what we can in the meantime to help them.

Refuge provides a range of life saving and life changing services. Not only by assisting brave women and children to escape their dangerous circumstances. Providing them with food, shelter & security but also giving them their voice back.

Refuge advocates for changes to policy, practice and legislation that will better protect survivors of domestic abuse and prevent future abuse. That includes driving policies to ensure the sustainability of life-saving domestic abuse services.During the pandemic (2020-2021) when families were forced into lockdown with hundreds of charities sadly shutting their doors, Refuge was able to help 10,724 women and 14,709 children escape.

The London Marathon has become an annual, inspiring and colourful fixture in the world’s sporting calendar and over the years more than a million people have completed the 26.2-mile course raising over a billion pounds for hundreds of causes.

Any donations, no matter how big or small, will be so hugely appreciated and will truly be going to a fantastic cause.

Thank you!

Ruby and Marc.