I have worked with homeless people for over 20 years now. The situation faced by people forced to live on the streets becomes increasingly difficult year on year. Far too often, the odds seemed to be stacked against people who have faced their own struggles with addiction or mental health, and those who have slipped through the net of the remaining support on offer from the welfare state. 

It is charities such as the The Big Change which make the real difference to solving the problem. The Big Change funds opportunities across Manchester to help people get back on their feet, and has an innovative approach to the ways of supporting formerly homeless people into their own homes. It is about so much more than simply giving someone the keys to a property. Whether it is the items required to furnish a home, or whether it is the funding to travel between home and support networks, the aim is to provide holistic support. 

I have been running seriously for 4 years now, and can actually finish a race in a reasonable time. I feel privileged to be able to run this half marathon on October 14th in aid of Big Change  If you did want to spur me on and sponsor a couple of quid towards this good cause, I would be delighted!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.