I'm running the Hackney Half Marathon on Sunday 17th May to raise money for the British Red Cross, and in particular the Hackney Destitution Centre, just down the road from the start line.

The Hackney Centre is a community space supporting asylum seekers across London: people with no right to work and no access to public funds, many of them homeless. It's where they come for hot meals, showers and laundry, supermarket vouchers and essentials like clothing and hygiene items. The team also provides emotional support and referrals to specialist services such as legal advice, healthcare and shelter.

Alongside the practical support, the centre runs English classes and a programme of activities and workshops, from photography and art to music, film-making and exercise, giving clients a chance to learn new skills, reconnect with themselves and build community. All of this is sustained by a brilliant network of volunteers who give their time generously.

The need has never been higher. Donations to the Red Cross and the wider refugee support sector have fallen sharply with the cost-of-living crisis, just as costs at the centre have climbed. The result is reduced teams, property closures, and increased demand from some of the most isolated members of our society.

Any donation you can give would be hugely appreciated, and will go a long way!