So, 2020 will be the year I undertake my first* marathon. In a moment of madness I put my name in the ballot for the London Marathon, safe in the knowledge that the odds of me getting a ballot place were against me. Turns out I was wrong. After a “congratulatory” email from LM and a week of thinking that running a marathon was impossible, I downloaded a training plan. I have decided to raise some money for a charity that I volunteer with – Safe Families for Children. Knowing that I am raising money for such a wonderful cause will make putting on my running trainers and heading out in the dark/rain/cold of the winter that bit easier.

Safe Families for Children do fantastic work, coming alongside parents and children who are struggling. Whether it is in the role of a family friend (as I am), a host family, or providing resources, they offer invaluable support and love to families in the North East (and beyond). Safe Families offer support, hope and belonging to improve the lives of those in our communities. They link children, young people and families with local volunteers who can offer them help and support.

As a family friend I have come alongside some local mums to offer them support, be a safe person to talk to, help to build their confidence, and to just be their friend.

Please consider donating any amount to my marathon challenge – not only would I would greatly appreciate it but more importantly it will help Safe Families to continue doing their amazing work.

*I don’t know why I put first, it is likely to be my last. Likely, but not definitely.

Some more information about Safe Families for Children can be found here: https://safefamilies.uk/about-us/

Safe families for children was founded in the US by Dr Dave Anderson in 2003. Since then it has recruited 20,000 volunteers to help families. Beginning in Chicago the US model now operates in 35 states and 65 cities, drastically reducing the numbers in state care. In 2012 Sir Peter Vardy brought the programme to the UK, building a pool of volunteers to undertake a pilot in the north east, initially working with Middlesbrough and 4 other local authorities across the North East.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.