On April 6th 2025, I will once again be strapping on my running shoes and going for a little jog. This time, I'll be running in the ABP Southampton Marathon.

I know what your thinking: Can't anyone run one of these things without a shakedown... and I nearly did!

However this year, I have not trained for this marathon to keep me fit or to prove to myself and others that I can do it. I have been training for this event to keep me sane during a time that I have been fighting a grueling and draining legal battle to maintain access to one of my children.

I do not post about this to air my laundry; however to raise awareness on a subject that now means a lot to my family and me.

Every year, 1000's of men face co-parenting disputes and struggles with access to the children they love. The legal systems in place are not set up to support equality and are so overloaded that each case is not assessed fully to ensure the child's best interest is maintained.

I do not deny that there are father's out there that are not up to the job of being Dad, however, those who do step up:

They deserve to be supported. They deserve to be heard. They deserve to have a say for the future of their children.

I would like to raise funds for Dad's Unlimited.

Dad's Unlimited - "Supporting the emotional safety of men and those they care about"

This charity provides vital support, advice and literature to those struggling to the fathom the shores of family court. The legal system is complex and extremely expensive. The support and services they offer are free to those who cannot afford to build up thousands of pounds in legal costs, to protect their relationship with their children.

I am fortunate to have an amazing partner and family to prop me up through out this process.. Some may not be so lucky and that's where Dad's Unlimited step in.

They provide emotional and well-being support to those enduring the inevitable emotional drain that comes with fighting to keep their children in their life.

They provide monthly support groups for those feeling isolated and alone during these times of dispute.

Along with a whole host of other services for men and fathers suffering during co-parenting and family separations.

So, if you would like to support me and add extra motivation as I hit the tarmac around Southampton, if you are in a position to do so please give to Dad's Unlimited.

For anyone reading this who has been affected by something similar, please do reach out.

For your Children - Please keep strong.

For your Children - Please keep pushing.

For your Children - Please seek support.

See you on the startline x