Dear All,

Thank you for visiting my Just Giving page (*and yes, that is me in the photo - just a younger, fresher version).

Last year I decided, in a moment of over-confidence, to see if I could enter the 2024 London Marathon via one of the many fantastic associated charities. I applied to Jesuit Refugee Service, a charity working hard to help create a warmer and more dignified welcome to people seeking safety in the UK. I was delighted (kind of) to be accepted and offered a place on the starting line for April this year.

The Jesuits and their work have always been important to me. Everyone goes through tough times in their life and I'm very glad that for me, the Jesuit community is one which has always been there, with an arm round the shoulder. So this seems like a great chance to ask my family and friends to help the efforts of JRS by donating some of their hard-earned money towards the work of the charity.

Donations can help with legal advice, interpreting services, hardship grants and phone credits. Contributions allow JRS to continue providing essential support. Here are some examples of what support donations can provide:

£5 can provide a refugee with a one-month supply of toiletries

£10 provides a monthly mobile credit and data top-up to ensure refugees are in touch with charities and loved ones

£20 can pay for an emergency hardship grant to newly destitute refugees

£100 helps JRS offer casework advice and support to refugees.

I would be very grateful if you could take time to sponsor me between now and 21st April, and I hope to see you soon.

Very many thanks and best wishes to you all.

Paul