A few months ago, I bought myself a pair of running shoes after not running (aside occasional sprint for the bus!) for around 10 years. I started running again as a way to keep my mind healthy during these cold and dark winter months, to discover a new purpose, and to develop strength. Now, I’m running to not only reach a personal goal, but also for something much greater than that. I’m taking on the Brighton Half Marathon to support a cause that means a lot to me.

RISE, which stands for Refuge, Information, Support and Education, is a Brighton-based charity that has been transforming lives for over 26 years. They provide life-changing support to survivors on their recovery journey following experiences of domestic and/or sexual abuse – including therapy, safe spaces, LGBTQ+ refuges, and programs for children and families to rebuild their lives, as well as community engagement projects. Their work empowers survivors to move forward with their lives with safety and dignity, with freedom from violence and abuse.

Domestic abuse is closer to us than we think. Here in the UK, one in five adults will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and one in five children have lived with an adult perpetrating abuse. Globally approximately 30% of women age 15 or older – equating to around 736 million women – have experienced physical or sexual violence.

Every 30 seconds, a domestic abuse related call is made to the police in the UK. This means that during the time it takes me to run the half marathon, approximately 300 calls will be made – this is a very scary statistic. This is 300 individuals who are scared for their lives, or the lives of their friends or families, at the hands of someone else. It is made even more real when we consider that it estimated that less than 24% of domestic abuse is reported. These staggering numbers act as a reminder as to why organisations like RISE are a lifeline.

Unfortunately, RISE cannot do their vital work without our support. This is why I am aiming to raise £500 through during the half marathon, which will directly fund essential services such as specialist therapy sessions, therapeutic survivor groups, and community engagement projects. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of many who are striving for safety and recovery. I would be very grateful if you could please make a donation, no matter how small - or if you’re unable to donate if you could please share the word of the amazing work RISE does - in order to help RISE continue the vital work they do. Together, we can help create a world that is free from abuse.

To me, this event is much more than just a half marathon; it symbolises hope and resilience for those who have faced unimaginable challenges. Every step I take during this half marathon is for them, and represents a commitment to create a world free from abuse and violence.

Sending love, Hannah🧡