After vowing never to run again following a brutal marathon (yes, I really meant it at the time!), I’m back—trainers on and ready for another challenge: the London 10K on 13 July.

Last time, I ran and fundraised for SRUK, a cause close to my heart—huge thanks to everyone who supported me! This time, I’m running for a different charity: Small Steps, which I discovered at a charity fair organised by my employer. I was inspired by the incredible work they do to support young children (and if you know me, you know how much I love young children!). I’d be so grateful for your support as I take on this new challenge.

Small Steps helps children with physical disabilities, aged from birth to 5 years, work on all areas of their development, using the principles of conductive education. These children have cerebral palsy, other forms of motor impairment, syndromes or sensory impairment. They need a great deal of extra stimulation and assistance to help them reach even the most basic milestones. At Small Steps, teachers, conductors and physiotherapists lead both parent and child through a structured programme designed to help each child achieve individualised developmental steps. The focus is very much on the positive; what children can and will achieve, with parents benefiting from the mutual support of shared experiences, on the emotional journey of having a disabled child. The work of Small Steps is a lifeline to families, and we would be extremely grateful for your support for this very worthy cause.

Small Steps sessions are 100% free. In order to remain accessible to all, there is no charge to families. The charity receives no statutory funding, so is solely dependent on charitable grants, fundraising and donations. Raising sufficient funds is proving particularly challenging for Small Steps in the current financial climate and they have seen a shortfall of income over the past year. No matter what the amount, every little bit donated will make a big difference. Please dig deep and help Small Steps continue their amazing work enhancing the lives of disabled children and their families. Thank you!!