Though I haven't previously talked publicly about my experiences, now I'm in a stronger place I feel it's important to share my story to help others, raise awareness and money for this organisation. As a survivor of rape and sexual violence myself, I used the Brighton branch of Survivor's network in times where I was unable to turn anywhere else. I was later diagnosed with PTSD, and throughout my darkest times, the centre was a wonderful outlet of information, support and compassion - both online and in person. Though I have wonderfully supportive friends and family, it was obviously not an easy topic to bring up in conversation and so having the centre there as safe-space was invaluable. 

The Survivors Trust (TST) is a UK-wide national umbrella agency for 135 specialist organisations for support for the impact of rape, sexual violence and childhood sexual abuse throughout the UK and Ireland. 

The work they do is astonishing, providing counselling, drop-in sessions, helplines, workshops and a Sexual Violence Advisory Service for those considering reporting to the police. 

"We will listen without judgement. We will believe without question. We are here for you."

They also provide services for friends and families of survivors, as well as catering for all genders and sexualities. 

The centre is run by a small team of staff and volunteers and deserve all the help, recognition and support they can. In a time where counselling services, mental health and our NHS is in detriment, centres like these are invaluable and require as much support as possible.

If you feel you can donate anything, please do to help such a wonderful cause and service.

On a more light-hearted note, anyone who knows me well or follows me on social media, will have seen that i've lost a lot of weight over the past year and have gradually turned my health and fitness around. However, this doesn't mean that busting out a 10k on a Sunday morning is very easy for me! It's taking a lot of hard work, persistence and commitment  - This time last year I could barely jog 100 metres! And unfortunately on race day, unlike in training, I won't be able to use my dog to drag me round. So please bare that in mind when donating ;) 

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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.