Council Worker Runs London Marathon to Support Domestic Abuse Survivors
A dedicated council worker who supports domestic abuse referrals in her local community is preparing to run the London Marathon in aid of Refuge.
Alison May, from Beckenham, Greater London, has often watched others take part in the iconic race and was keen to complete it herself before she turns 40 in June.
“Before this, the last time I ran was at university, about 18 years ago. But I wanted a physical challenge and, as this feels like a milestone year, I thought now was the time to do it,” she said.
“I do also find that running is really good for working through thoughts and challenges,” she added.
As Assistant Director of Skills and Employment for London Borough of Lambeth, Alison regularly works with referrals from Refuge’s Gaia Centre, which supports Lambeth residents who are survivors of gender-based violence and abuse.
“We work with the Gaia Centre when there are referrals for women needing adult education or employment support related to their circumstances. That’s where my motivation to run for Refuge came from,” said Alison, who has already raised more than £2,000 for the charity.
To help her prepare, and to make the challenge feel a little less daunting, she joined Dulwich Park Runners on a beginner course. She now volunteers to support the club’s newest members.
Alison said: “Some are working up to a 5k while others are just taking their first steps – we pair up and chat as we run to support them. I’ve partnered with women who’ve taken up running for all sorts of reasons.”
She added: “There are multiple challenges with running a marathon – it’s really far, it’s exhausting and it definitely takes a toll on your life. You’re constantly asking yourself: how do I fit this in?
“But I often wear my Refuge T-shirt while training, and women will come up to me and offer donations – that gives me such a strong sense of responsibility and spurs me on.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there, raising money for a great cause, soaking up the atmosphere and crossing that finish line.
“I’ll be pushing myself to do something really positive – hopefully for others, but also for myself – and raising awareness about domestic abuse, which is so important.”
Hannah Gripton, Community and Events Manager at Refuge, said: “We’re so grateful to Alison for taking on this huge challenge for us. With someone turning to Refuge for help every two minutes, and one in four women experiencing domestic abuse in their lifetime, the money Alison raises will be vital.
“As it stands, her fundraising could provide 80 emergency parcels containing essentials such as toiletries, nappies, food and clothing for women and their children arriving at our refuges.
“We wish Alison the very best of luck and look forward to cheering her across the finish line on race day.”
Refuge ambassador and former marathon runner Sharon Gaffka said: “Running the London Marathon in 2023 for Refuge was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an achievement I’ll never forget. Every mile reminded me why I was there – to raise awareness for a cause that means so much to me. The aches and pains of the race were nothing compared to the impact I knew I was making.
“When it gets tough, remember – don’t give up, because so many people don’t have a choice in their struggles. To this year’s runners, be prepared for an emotional day, but in the best way possible. It brings out the very best in people. Stay focused, dig deep, and know you’re running for something bigger than yourself. You’ve got this!”
The London Marathon will take place on Sunday 27 April.
