A little background: For several years I covered conflict and violence in the Middle East (mostly in Iraq). I had the luxury of having a major news organization pay for my security training, insurance and safe accommodation, allowing me to focus on covering the news.

Not everyone has that luxury. Many freelancers risk their lives to bring us the news, often from parts of the world that are extremely dangerous. They must find ways to pay for their travel, training, insurance and accommodation. 

The Rory Peck Trust seeks to help them with all of that. It provides assistance and support to freelancers (and their families), improves their welfare and safety, and fights for their right to report freely.

Why do freelancers matter? I have written and edited for major news organizations around the world and now work at The New York Times. But I know freelancers add a crucial element to the world of journalism, whether they are producing their own stories for various outlets or assisting journalists working for organizations like The Times.

As the Rory Peck Trust notes: "Journalism has become a high-risk occupation. Freelancers face these risks with little or no protection."

About the run: The Palace Half is a 13.1 mile-run around Hampton Court Palace in southwest London. There are more details here: https://www.palacehalf.com/

(Photo used under Creative Commons -- © Daniel Van Moll)