I am hugely grateful to be offered a place for the 2025 London Marathon, I was thrilled and slightly terrified when the offer came in!

I have always supported the NSPCC in various ways because of the incredible work they do to ensure that the next generation of children has the support they need in our society. My visit to the NSPCC’s central Hub in Leeds left me in awe of the team’s dedication. They not only manage mainstream projects like ChildLine and Pantosaurus but also tackle challenging issues such as sexual abuse and prenatal therapy for anxious mothers. This experience opened my eyes to the breadth of the NSPCC’s work and the long waiting lists for their services, which was quite sobering. I am passionate about spreading awareness and educating others about the full range of services the NSPCC offers and how everyone can contribute to making a difference.

In the past, I volunteered as a mentor for young children who needed respite from their challenging circumstances. This involved visiting children in custody, accompanying them to specialised support services, engaging in recreational activities, and even attending the birth of a baby. These experiences profoundly shaped my understanding of the hardships some young people face and highlighted the importance of the services available to them.

For me, running this marathon represents a significant personal challenge. After navigating a difficult two years marked by the loss of two young family members, I am eager to regain a sense of self and achievement. This journey will provide me with a clear focus and determination to tackle something truly challenging.

I have also played a key role in the NSPCC’s product partnership, selecting a product range that maximises exposure across hundreds of schools. This initiative aims to reach thousands of children, spreading recognition of the NSPCC brand and fostering conversations about the support available to them.