Matt's London Marathon Fundraiser for Domestic Abuse

Running for safety, freedom and a future beyond abuse

I am running the London Marathon for Trafford Domestic Abuse Services because this cause is deeply personal to me. I grew up around domestic abuse. I do not share that for sympathy, but because the effects of domestic abuse reach far beyond the moments that other people see. As a child, you may not always have the words to explain what is happening, but you feel the fear, tension and instability around you.

Those experiences do not simply disappear when childhood ends. They can shape your understanding of safety, trust, relationships and yourself long into adulthood. I know how far that impact can travel and I want to use this challenge to help other adults and children find the safety and support they deserve.

Trafford Domestic Abuse Services supports adults, children and families affected by domestic abuse across Trafford and Salford. Their specialist teams provide safe accommodation, confidential advice, one-to-one emotional and practical support, safety planning, advocacy for people at high risk, recovery programmes and dedicated services for children and young people.

Crucially, TDAS supports people at every stage. That might mean helping someone who is still living with abuse, supporting them to leave safely, or working alongside them as they rebuild their confidence, independence and future. They also deliver education and prevention work, helping communities understand domestic abuse and encouraging healthier relationships for future generations.

Taking on 26.2 miles will be a huge challenge for me, but it is NOTHING compared with the courage it takes to ask for help, escape an abusive situation or rebuild a life after abuse.

I am running for those who have lived in fear. For the children whose experiences stay with them. For every survivor reclaiming their life. And for a future where nobody has to experience domestic abuse alone. Every donation, however large or small, will help TDAS continue providing compassionate, specialist support to people when they need it most.
Thank you for supporting me and, more importantly, for standing alongside survivors of domestic abuse.