Thank you for sponsoring me on this solo adventure! I have chosen to support Rape Crisis for various reasons – mainly for the good work that they do (see below) but also in the last few years it angers me from the high-profile cases how women are unable to walk home safely – that we constantly think about our safety in ways men do not.

Walking with our keys in our hands, weighing up where to sit on a bus or train, being judged for our choice of clothing or simply being out unaccompanied after dark. All things that women around the world know too well. It really shouldn't have to be like this.

Rape and sexual violence are difficult, often painful topics which makes fundraising to support those affected especially challenging.

I’ve chosen to walk solo, 10 days along the Grand Union Canal (147 miles/237km) starting from Birmingham Gas Basin and finishing at London Paddington.

Please note all costs are being covered by myself and all funds raised will go directly to the charity.

I am fundraising for Rape Crisis England & Wales to stand in solidarity with victims and survivors of sexual violence. Rape and sexual abuse are devastating crimes but are unfortunately not uncommon. 1 in 5 women have been raped or sexually assaulted as an adult.

Rape Crisis England & Wales:

- Raises awareness of the prevalence and impact of sexual violence and abuse in all its forms.

- Advocates for systems change to create better responses in justice, health, education and across society

- Ensure that specialist support is available

And finally, I dedicate this walk – to all the women around the world who never got to walk home.

Many thanks

Melissa