On 19th April, I’ll be running the Manchester Marathon and raising money for Gender Identity Research and Education Society (GIRES) — a charity whose work means a lot to me and to many of my friends.

Taking on a marathon is a huge challenge for me, but I wanted to push myself to raise money for a cause that is incredibly important in today’s world. Supporting organisations that promote understanding, dignity, and equal access to healthcare for trans people matters deeply, and GIRES is one of the key organisations doing this work in the UK.

About GIRES

The Gender Identity Research and Education Society (GIRES) is a UK-based charity led by trans people, dedicated to improving the lives of trans and gender-diverse people.

For many years, the organisation has been a trusted source of research, education, and advocacy, helping professionals, policymakers, and the public better understand gender identity and the real experiences of trans people.

GIRES works to create a society where trans people can live safely, openly, and with dignity, and where they have access to the healthcare, recognition, and support they need.

Their work helps build a world where respect, understanding, and inclusion replace misinformation and stigma.

What GIRES Does

GIRES carries out a wide range of important work across the UK, including:

* Researching gender identity and the experiences of trans and gender-diverse people

* Educating organisations and professionals so they can better support trans individuals

* Providing accurate information and resources about gender identity

* Supporting healthcare providers to improve gender-related healthcare services

* Working with government bodies and policymakers to improve laws and protections

* Raising awareness of the real-life experiences and needs of trans people

Through this work, GIRES helps ensure that policies, services, and public understanding are based on evidence, compassion, and lived experience.

Why This Work Matters

Trans and gender-diverse people still face many challenges in the UK, particularly when it comes to:

* accessing timely and appropriate healthcare

* experiencing misunderstanding and misinformation

* facing social stigma or discrimination

GIRES helps address these issues by providing research-backed knowledge, supporting inclusive policies, and helping professionals better understand how to support trans people.

Their work helps create safer communities, fairer systems, and better healthcare outcomes for thousands of people.

Why I’m Running

Running 26.2 miles will definitely be tough, but it’s nothing compared to the challenges many trans people face every day just trying to live authentically and safely.

I’m running the Manchester Marathon because I want to help support the work GIRES is doing — raising awareness, improving understanding, and helping create a more inclusive society.

If you’re able to donate, even a small amount, it will make a real difference. Every contribution helps support research, education, and advocacy that improves lives across the UK.

Thank you so much for supporting this cause — and for supporting me as I take on this challenge!