This October, I’m running the Oxford Half Marathon to raise money for Survivor Space Oxfordshire (formerly known as OSARCC)— a local charity dedicated to supporting people affected by sexual violence.

In 2017, I was raped. It’s an event that continues to shape my life in ways I’m still learning to live with. Often, there is a reluctance to use the term ‘rape’ due to stigma or discomfort, but after years of carrying shame, naming my experience matters to me.

Despite receiving support, the effects have been enduring and, at times, deeply isolating. Recent revelations of sexual violence often highlight institutional accountability, yet there remains a significant gap in the dialogue about the long-term impacts on people who have experienced sexual violence and the support available to them. I want to help change that.

Survivor Space Oxfordshire supports survivors of sexual abuse, rape, domestic abuse and harassment. They provide free, confidential and trauma-informed specialist services, including counselling, support groups and advocacy, to survivors and those supporting them.

On 12th October, I’ll be running the 13.1 miles to raise money for a charity I feel deeply passionate about and have benefitted from by accessing their services.

If you can, please consider making a donation. Every contribution makes a difference, and I hope sharing my experience encourages anyone affected by sexual violence to seek support when they are ready.

Thank you!

Find out more:

Survivor Space Oxfordshire

Impacts of Sexual Violence – Rape Crisis UK

Help After Rape and Sexual Assault – NHS