In support of Shelter and loving memory of Catherine Finnegan

I’m excited to share that on Sunday, October 13th, I’ll be running the Royal Parks Half Marathon in memory of Catherine Finnegan, a beloved friend and colleague who made a lasting impact on all who knew her. This run is a tribute to Catherine’s life, and all funds raised will go to Shelter, a charity that was close to her heart and dedicated to working tirelessly to support the homeless.

Living and working in London, especially near our Victoria office, we witnessed the growing homelessness crisis firsthand. Every day—whether on our commute, during lunch breaks, or on the way home—we saw more and more people struggling on the streets, with new faces appearing regularly.

While many of us are fortunate to return home to warmth and safety, they remain outside, facing unimaginable hardships. Each person we pass has a story—someone’s mother, father, sibling, or child—desperately in need of help. Shelter works tirelessly to provide the vital support they need, proving that, together, we can make a meaningful difference.

This run is especially personal to me, and the team, as Ill be running in memory of Catherine (Kat), who tragically passed away earlier this year. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-68149469 Kat was a vital part of our company for eight loyal years, and she, too, was deeply moved by the homelessness crisis around us. We would discuss the crisis, discussing both new faces and regulars now missing – both, equally sad prospects. With her generous spirit, she frequently ran for causes she believed in, including 10ks and half marathons, with a special passion for Shelter’s mission. Kat always wanted to make a difference—and she did. Even in the holidays she would give up her time working in soup kitchens each year.

On the day that Kat died, she was described as a woman who was walking at the pace of a woman half her age. This described Kat so well, as she was always fit, healthy and active. Whether it was during long walks in the Surrey Hills with her best friend Sally, or while traveling—whether to visit family back in the Emerald Isle or to explore the world—Kat’s energy and adventurous spirit were always on display.

Running this race in her honor is both a privilege and a way to celebrate the beautifully compassionate person she was.

Please consider donating to support Shelter and help continue the work Kat cared so deeply about. Together, we can help those who need it most.

How can you help?

• £6 could enable someone to get in touch with Shelter’s specialized Legal Team, who can help take the first steps in fighting for their home.

• £12 could enable our Legal Team to call a social landlord and fight to save a home.

• £24 could enable a Legal Advisor to write a letter to a landlord challenging unlawful actions that may leave a person or even a family in an unfit home.

• £42 could give our passionate advisers the chance to sit down and spend time with a client, understanding their story and giving them the best chance to keep a safe and secure home.

Please do not forget to tick 'gift aid' with your kind donation :)

Thank you for your support!

Love, Lizzie x