Rosie Howell: London Marathon Challenge

I've taken on the challenge of running the 2022 London Marathon in support of Heathrow Community Trust and Refugee Council. It won't be easy - the furthest I've ever run is 10k, and I'd fallen out of the habit of regular running when the opportunity of a place came up. However, I was on the hunt for a big scary goal to work towards, and this seemed to fit the bill. After all, it's just about putting one foot in front of the other, right?!

I'm very fortunate to be running in aid of two amazing charities. Heathrow Community Trust supports communities in the boroughs closest to Heathrow Airport. Having spent a year as part of the Trust's grant review panel focusing on projects supporting young people, I know how much of a difference the funding makes to improving the quality of life of beneficiaries and I'm really pleased to be able to do something practical to support.

The funds I raise will be shared with Refugee Council which provides support to people who've had their lives and families torn apart by war, including those fleeing Afghanistan and Ukraine. From the point refugees arrive in the UK, Refugee Council offers practical support, advice and access to specialist help. They also campaign for improvements to the asylum protection system and inspire change in attitudes towards refugees and people seeking asylum.

Thank you for your support!