Hannah's marathon run
Hannah is running the London Marathon for The Children’s Society. She spoke to us about what inspired her to take part, how the training is going and what it has taught her about mental health. You can follow Hannah's journey here as she gears up for the big day and find out how you can support her or get involved in an event too.
Getting motivated
Getting motivated
Hannah, 19, has taken on the incredible challenge of running the 2025 London Marathon to raise funds for us. Passionate about mental health, she has been actively involved in youth voice work, advocating for better support and safe spaces for young people to go when they need help.
“I chose to support the Children's Society as it's a charity that I've worked alongside before, so I first came into the charity in 2021 and did work with children in mental health.”
running
She loves running and sees it as a way to channel her emotions and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Running can really help with your mental health.
“It's definitely a way to escape your feelings and your thoughts, and just put yourself out there and just relax. Feel free.”
Fact slice
1 in 5
children and young people aged 8 to 25 in England have a probable mental health condition
40,000
children waiting over 2 years for mental health support in the past year.
Just giving
“I think a lot of people find it hard to talk about their mental health. I think it's quite a nerve wracking topic that's not talked about enough and there are not enough safe spaces for young people to go.”
“To prepare for the race, I'm running three times a week. Then I also train in the gym with my coach.”
You can support Hannah’s marathon run by donating to her Just Giving page.
I'm really excited that it's going towards a good cause. I'm really excited that it's going towards a good cause.
Visiting the hub
A space for young people
Hannah recently visited the Time for young people Newham hub — our new emotional wellbeing support space for young people in the area. Here she met the staff and talked through why it is so important to have a space where children can go without a referral to talk and seek help. Mental health waiting lists are at an all-time high.
"I'm glad there are places like this where young people can just go straight into and have help there on the day."
I think it's definitely really valuable.
Stay tuned
Stay tuned for updates to this page as we follow Hannah through her marathon training and much more!
Fundraise or host an event
Every year, thousands of people like you are inspired to raise money for young people. Your amazing efforts help change the lives of children and restore their hope for the future.
Whatever your skills or hobbies, whether organising a Christingle, running a marathon or hosting an online quiz night, your fundraising will help us be there for children who need us most.
So, what will you do?
