Imagine me, if you can, in a cool craft beer bar in Bethnal Green, drinking a zero percent with my delightful pals Kate & Alyssa last April discussing how difficult it is to get in to the London Marathon…having consumed no actual alcohol we decided it was a good idea to sign ourselves up to the ballot. Cut to July and indeed Kate & Alyssa had missed out on a place but this muggins, who struggles to run for a bus had just got a place in the London Marathon!

After many a conversation, a few tears and a lot of laughter, I paid for my place and cracked on, so this gal is literally living Couch to Marathon!

If I’m going to do this, I don’t want it to only change my life but the lives of some pretty important young people too, so I’ve decided to use this as an opportunity to raise money for two incredible charities, one for each of my heart’s homes, London & Chichester.

For Chichester: The Bell Tower Drop In (Chichester City Centre Youth Drop In)
Having sat on the board for two years already and been lucky enough to watch the team from afar do incredible work, I am delighted to be able to raise money for these guys.
They run a daily after school drop in for secondary school young people creating a family environment that’s safe, warm and full of love for these kids.
Find out more here: https://www.belltowerchi.uk/our-journey/

For London: Oak LDN (through Bethnal Green Mission Church)
Having got to hear the stories of some of the young people who have gone through this programme and seen where they have gone to, I know how impactful this project is.
Oak LDN works with young men who face significant challenges by running a residential programme developing their relationship with themselves, their community and the world around them.
Find out more here: https://www.oaklondon.co.uk/

With a decrease in funding for youth projects being available, it’s even more important to invest in these young people’s lives, mental health and future. Anything you can give will help in such a huge way!