I'm running to raise money for Circle's Harbour Project: a project dedicated to supporting families impacted by patental substance use.This is the team I work for and I know that every penny raised will be hugely valuable and go directly to the families we support. These are families where parents are striving to overcome the impact of their own substance use and trauma, whilst creating a positive, safe and loving environment in which their children can thrive.

To support these families, the Harbour Project has a comprehensive approach including family-inclusive practices, peer support, specialised help for fathers, assistance for young people, and support for birth parents.

Having additional funds available allows us to respond flexibly to need and to show kindness and compassion at times when families need it most; taking a parent shopping for food when supplies are low, treating a family to ice-creams during a walk on the beach or buying a swimming costume so that a mum can attend lessons with her child.

Money raised will also go towards our holiday activities. Each year we deliver an amazing programme of regular activities and events throughout the school holidays. These include trips to museums, the zoo and country parks; days on the beach and in local parks; Christmas and Halloween parties, Easter egg hunts in the Botanics and a Summer Fun Day. It's always great to see children taking part in activities which they may not otherwise have accessed, and to watch friendships grow between the families who attend throughout the year. There is something very powerful about being part of a community of families in recovery and the holiday activities are hugely important to the work we do.

Circle's holiday programme not only offers a haven for fun and play but also delivers vital benefits such as providing structure and routine for families, offering opportunities for parental support, facilitating socialisation for children in a safe environment, creating new experiences across Scotland, and ensuring consistent contact with vulnerable families. Through these initiatives, we aim to alleviate the pressures and isolation faced by families, fostering stronger, more resilient communities.

Thank-you for your support!