Hellllo! I’m Amy, and I've decided to undertake the Edinburgh Half-Marathon on the 25th of May to raise funds to help refugees and asylum seekers.

Every day, people flee conflict, persecution, and extreme poverty and often arrive in their new countries with little more than hope of a safer future.

Frustratingly, on arrival in Britain, asylum seekers are met with the ‘Hostile Environment’ policy which includes a range of protocols to prevent access to employment, housing, healthcare and other basic services. It aims to be demoralising, unwelcoming and essentially make life as difficult as possible for new arrivals. Hostility is further compounded by tabloid press and reactionary public figures who unfairly scapegoat refugees and asylum seekers for all of society's problems.

I have worked with refugees in various capacities since 2018 and I have seen first hand that the only difference between our circumstances and theirs - is sheer luck.

That's why I've decided to raise funds for Scottish Refugee Council. It's a charity committed to welcoming those seeking safety in Scotland with open arms, and giving them the necessary advice, support and guidance to integrate and thrive as part of our communities.

Since I only started running last year, running 21km is a huge challenge for me. But I know for refugees, the challenge to survive, rebuild, and reclaim their lives is even greater.

If you too stand with refugees and asylum seekers, please consider donating what you can. Together, we can ensure that those who have been forced to leave everything behind are not met with hostility, but compassion, dignity and support as they start anew!

Massive thank you to anyone who donates – your contribution is HUGELY appreciated. ❤️

Lots of love

Amy xxx