University of Exeter student running marathon to fight domestic abuse
Photo: RUN 4 FFWPU
Emily Smith, a 22-year-old business master's student at Exeter, has decided to run the London marathon next month to raise awareness and funds for the charity 'Refuge.'
Emily Smith unfortunately had a troublesome childhood, having experienced controlling and coercive behaviour by her stepfather who emotionally abused her mother. She made the decision to run to raise awareness that not all abuse is physical, but can be psychological as well, whilst also supporting the charity that helps many women leave domestic abuse situations.
Refuge opened its first women's safe house in 1971. It has a 24-hour hotline, provides support from the community to leave unsafe relationships and is advocating for mandatory 'safe relationship education' in all schools.
This education would help women and children recognise the signs of abuse much earlier in their relationships and hopefully increase the likelihood of them being able to escape such situations. It is a renowned charity, having ambassadors like Fiona Bruce, however, donations are always needed to keep these vital charities open.
Emily has aimed to raise £2000 in total, nearly half of which she has already achieved with six weeks left to go. Despite playing netball for the university for many years, she has not run a marathon before. However, she is currently training and is aiming to reach 20 miles before the marathon. She hopes that the support of her family members and donors can push her through the final six miles to the finish line. Best of luck to her!
You can sponsor Emily here.
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