I am fundraising to Build Bridges Not Walls by running a marathon from my house in Bristol to Chepstow in Wales on March 29th. The run will cross several bridges including the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Severn Bridge. This is part of the charities wider campaing to raise money via various bridges related challanges https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/build-bridges-not-walls

Bridges for Communities is a Bristol based charity that connects people of different cultures, races and faiths, enabling them to build friendships, grow in their understanding of one another and live well with difference.

I have been a befriending volunteer with Bridges for Communities since the summer of 2024 after being inspired to sign up by my girlfriend Zoe who was volunteering for the charity. My befriending partner, who is seeking asylum in the UK, and I meet up once a week and we practise english, try to do fun things if we can (he has developed a perticular passion for golf), or I will provide practical support with negotiating life in the UK when required. Most of the time it doesn't really feel like volunteering for me but its amazing how even little things can make such a big difference, especially when asylum seekers have to live on less than £50 per week.

I have seen first hand the amazing work Bridges do supporting refugees and asylum seekers in Birstol and bringing communities together. The people Bridges support have often come to the UK fleeing war or persecution and without charities like Bridges recieve very little support with integrating into the community.

Together we can create communities where we know and trust our neighbours, where we care for each other, and where we all feel we have a place. Each step is a reminder that our society is stronger when we reach across the divides and walk or run side by side.

Any support would be greatly appreciated and I know it will make such a difference to the people Bridges support.