Immediately after completing the Sheffield Half Marathon last year I vowed not to run it again, the course is tough and the first 10k it is unrelenting going up, up and up (although to be fair that was my favourite part!).

Being in April and being an early morning runner also means some pretty bitter training runs but that does generally mean clear skies so I get to train with the stars and planets (generally Jupiter or Venus I think) it's the rain that is the bleaker option.

But what makes it so much easier is running for a cause, both to raise funds but also and just as importantly to raise awareness of my chosen charity. Having just started working for Action for Children it seems right to do what I can to support the amazing work they do. I knew a bit about the support they provided but the reality is so much more impressive and is well worth looking into as they really do make a massive difference to children and families (mine included) who are needing some support however big or small both now and looking into the future.

https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/

A prime example of this is the ask for the next Prime Minister and Chancellor to be champions of children through the 'Children at the table' campaign. This is a coalition of "leading children's charities which expresses concerns that for too long, children have not been a priority for successive governments, or for political parties generally.....For too long children’s voices have gone unheard. We have the chance to put their voices at the heart of decision making – to bring children to the table. We need change. And that can’t be left to chance".

To support the campaign please visit: -

https://take.actionforchildren.org.uk/page/142209/petition/1?ea.tracking.id=intcom

What those families are going through can be so hard and my grumbles when the alarm clock goes off to wake me up for another run pail into complete insignificance but it gives me the kick I need to get out of the door knowing that it will ultimately it may add a little bit of positivity to someone's day.

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.