I am excited/terrified to be ticking off a bucket list item this year and am taking on the London Marathon in April.

I am running for a wonderful charity called United Response who supports people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs to live independently. As many of you know, my day job is as a specialist teacher supporting school-aged children with Autism and associated learning difficulties, so this is a cause I am particularly passionate about. I see first-hand the challenges that some of these children face every day, and whilst many go on to thrive and live full lives independently without support, there is a significant proportion for whom this presents real challenges.

26.2 miles is nothing short of terrifying, as is the gruelling winter training programme (and if you know me at all, you will know that cold, dark morning runs are not my vibe!), so I would massively appreciate any contribution at all to help get me out the door and to the start line! xx

See their website here for more information about some of the wonderful things United Response do and where your money will be going:

https://www.unitedresponse.org.uk/

Since 1973 United Response has been fighting for a society where everyone has the right to live the life they choose, no matter their disability.

United Response's first service was a single house for twelve adults in West Sussex. Now, we operate in over 350 locations, employing over 3,500 staff and supporting over 2,000 people.

The core of our work is supporting people with learning disabilities, autistic people and mental health needs to live independently. Everyone has the right to feel connected, have choice and respect, build relationships, be recognised for their strengths, and call their communities home.

Your donations support people with learning disabilities to develop skills and gain confidence to live fulfilling and active lives. Thank you.