We are running the Great North Run for an incredible service close to our hearts, Rape Crisis Tyneside and Northumberland (RCTN).

During our time at Newcastle University, we saw the incredible work they do serving the community.

RCTN provides specialist services to women and girls who have experienced a form of sexual violence at any time in their lives.

They provide professional counselling to help survivors heal and recover. They also provide specialist workers who guide survivors through reporting to the Police and navigating the Criminal Justice System.

The charity also works to raise awareness of the true nature, impact and prevalence of sexual violence. The reality is stark:

- 1 in 4 women experience some form of sexual violence since the age of 16.

- Fewer than 3 in 100 rapes recorded by police in 2024 resulted in someone actually being charged that same year, let alone convicted.

Rape Crisis works tirelessly to lobby for change. Recently, they have been campaigning to change laws around 'bad character evidence', whereby previous disclosures of sexual violence that did not lead to a conviction can currently be used to undermine and discredit survivors.

Sexual violence is widespread, yet justice remains heartbreakingly rare. RCTN is working to change that. This is why we are running for Rape Crisis Tyneside and Northumberland, for every woman and girl who deserves safety, support and justice.

Any donations are hugely appreciated.

Thank you,

Grace and Francesca xxx

https://rctn.org.uk/