Alongside sponsoring the Middlesbrough Half Marathon, a group of our Baltic Apprenticeships team are taking on the 21.1km challenge - and we’re running for something that really matters to us.

We’re raising money for Doorways Middlesbrough, a local grassroots charity that supports people experiencing homelessness right here in the Tees Valley. Doorways provides a safe space, hot meals, care packages and essential items for adults and children who need them most. From clothing and shoes to blankets, sleeping bags and tents, everything they provide is free - and they rely heavily on donations to keep going.

Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly to Doorways Middlesbrough. A £25 donation can help provide things like hot meals, warm clothing, care packages or bedding - making a real, immediate difference to someone’s day.

There are 14 of us running the half marathon, with a mix of abilities - some first-timers, some more experienced runners - all fitting training around work, family life and everything in between. What brings us together is a shared belief that everyone deserves dignity, warmth and support, especially during tough times.

Thank you so much for supporting us, cheering us on, or donating if you’re able to. It genuinely means a lot - to us, and to the people Doorways supports every day.