This September, I’ll be taking on the Windsor Half Marathon to raise vital funds for Home-Start West Berkshire – a local charity that makes a big difference for families when life feels overwhelming.

Parenting young children is never easy, but for many families in West Berkshire, the challenges are immense: rising living costs, reduced public services, isolation, grief, poor mental health, or simply the daily struggle of making ends meet. Home-Start West Berkshire steps in at these critical moments, offering practical help, emotional support, and a listening ear.

Last year, Home-Start supported 193 families and 269 children through home-visiting volunteers, Baby Bank donations, group sessions, and targeted projects.

Home-Start helped mums like Amy, who was struggling with postnatal depression, find hope and confidence again through peer groups and volunteer support.

Home-Start stood alongside parents like Chinyere, who was grieving a baby loss while raising two young boys, giving her space to heal while her children grew in confidence and speech.

They even provided over £13,000 worth of essentials through their Baby Bank – from nappies and stair gates to double buggies and Christmas presents – so no child had to go without.

But running a charity is getting harder every year. Grants are shrinking, costs are rising, and without fundraising events like this one, Home-Start West Berkshire simply will not be able to continue being there for families who desperately need help.

That’s why I’m asking for your support. Every pound you give will be match funded and go directly towards helping families in crisis – making sure no parent feels alone and every child gets the best possible start in life.

£10 could provide a week’s worth of nappies to a family struggling to get by.

£25 could help fund a home-visit from a trained volunteer, giving a parent the space to rest and recover.

£50 could help run a group session where isolated parents build friendships and children learn through play.

Please sponsor me if you can – and if you can’t give, a share of this page would mean the world.

Thank you so much