In April 2026, I’ll be running the London Marathon to raise money for Refuge, the UK’s leading charity supporting women and children escaping domestic abuse.

Refuge is not only a cause I care about; it's one that changed my life. Not many people know this, but a few years ago, I was in an abusive relationship. Leaving was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Like so many others, I felt scared, isolated, and unsure where to turn. That all changed when I called Refuge’s 24/7 Helpline. A call that changed everything. It gave me the information, strength, and reassurance I needed to take that first step towards safety.

Some of you will also know that until very recently, I had the privilege of working for Refuge. I left just two weeks ago, but during my time there, I saw first-hand the compassion, courage and commitment that drives everything Refuge does. From supporting women in crisis to helping them rebuild their independence, their work is exceptional.

One in four women will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime, and tragically, two women are killed every week in England and Wales by a current or former partner. Refuge is the largest provider of specialist services for women and children affected by domestic, sexual, and gender-based abuse. It also runs the freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline; the same one I turned to when I needed help.

By sponsoring me as part of Team Refuge, you're not just supporting me to run 26.2 miles; you're helping to keep women and children safe. You're helping to give someone else the same chance I had: to escape, to heal, and to start again.

My target is £2,500, and every contribution counts! Thank you so much for anything you can give. Your support means more than I can say.

Phoebe