Five heroic runners are taking on the Royal Parks Half Marathon this Sunday 7 October to raise vital funds for SHP.

The Royal Parks Half Marathon is one of the most prestigious events in the running calendar. The stunning central London half marathon, takes in the capital's world-famous landmarks on closed roads, and four of London's eight Royal Parks - Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James's Park and Kensington Gardens.

Ahead of the big day, we spoke to a few runners to find out why they're taking on the challenge. 

 

John

In late 2015, John became homeless after experiencing heroin addiction for ten years. He turned his life around after completing getting into rehab, and was referred to SHP's Islington Aftercare service to help him get back on his feet. 

“People may think that I wasted my life, but I don’t see those years as wasted. I don’t like to think of the things I did as mistakes, I think of them as lessons that I can now use to help others in the same situation as I was in. 

“Now, I feel fulfilled at the end of every single day. I feel like I can now take on challenges like the Royal Parks Half Marathon – something I wouldn’t have done before! It’s all part of slowly putting my life back together.”

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Joe

“As a Londoner it breaks my heart seeing homeless people on the streets. I have always wanted to fundraise for a charity, this is my first time and I don't want to go for the usual charities. I often seen many homeless people throughout this city and sometimes feel helpless. This will hopefully help towards getting some homeless people off the street.”

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Rose

“I believe homelessness is a cause that deserves more attention. I live in an area in which homelessness is very visible to me, but I often feel powerless with how I can help people in the best possible way. I see running for SHP as a way of helping this cause, helping fund the work and programs run by SHP, but also, importantly spreading the word about the issue. There is a huge stigma and taboo surrounding homelessness and I would hope - through fundraising - to help change people's mind sets.”

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Henry

"I’m running because I stand for ending homelessness. I am the activities coordinator for SHP’s Hammersmith and Fulham Mental Health Services and it’s great to see how SHP supports those who are often marginalised and stigmatised from society. I enjoy seeing the positive impact we have in people’s lives. I’m looking forward to the race and although I’m nervous (it’s my first half marathon!) I’m so happy I am able to run for SHP, raise funds and increase awareness about our work."

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