Four Incredible NHS Heroes Take on the London Marathon 2026 for Brighterway

Meet the Runners Making Every Step Count

The London Marathon is more than just a race — it’s a celebration of dedication, perseverance, and community spirit. In 2026, four extraordinary participants are taking on the challenge to raise funds for Brighterway, the charity supporting NHS staff and patients across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. From seasoned marathoners to those new to long-distance running, their stories inspire us all.

Meet Steve, Amber, and sisters Clare & Kat — each with their own unique journey and a shared mission to make a difference.

Steve: From NHS Veteran to Marathon Champion

Steve, a dedicated NHS professional from Hampshire, has spent decades supporting healthcare in his community. After five unsuccessful ballot attempts, he has finally secured a charity place for the London Marathon — a dream come true.

Having run marathons across Europe, including Amsterdam, Madrid, Brussels, and the scenic 3 Country Marathon through Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Steve brings experience, determination, and an unwavering spirit to the 2026 London Marathon.

“Running has become more than just a personal challenge; it’s a way for me to stay fit while giving back to those less fortunate,” Steve shares.

Steve’s journey is a testament to commitment — not just to running, but to the NHS and Brighterway’s vital work. His dedication ensures that every step helps fund projects enhancing local health services and staff wellbeing.

Support Steve and read more about his journey HERE | Donate via JustGiving HERE

Amber: From Couch to 26.2 Miles

Amber, the Admin Team Lead at Elmleigh Hospital, discovered her passion for running in 2020 through the NHS Couch to 5K programme. What began as a simple fitness goal has evolved into an inspiring mission to raise funds for Brighterway and support patients at Elmleigh Hospital.

From completing multiple Race for Life 5Ks and 10Ks to tackling the Great South Run, Amber’s commitment is unstoppable. Her adventures extend beyond running, climbing peaks like Snowdon and Scafell Pike — a true testament to her determination and love for staying active.

“Every donation makes a tangible difference to patients and staff at Elmleigh. Knowing that keeps me going, mile after mile,” says Amber.

Read Amber’s blog to follow her marathon journey HERE | Donate via JustGiving HERE

Clare & Kat: Sisters United for the NHS

Sisters Clare and Kat are no strangers to teamwork. Both Advanced Clinical Practitioners have dedicated over 15 years to supporting patients and colleagues in the NHS. Now, they are swapping scrubs for running shoes, taking on the London Marathon side by side.

Running is part of their shared story — from Clare completing her first London Marathon at 26 to Kat running her own years later. In 2026, the sisters will tackle the challenge together, powered by resilience, training miles, and, of course, plenty of coffee breaks.

“Sometimes a hot drink and a chat are all it takes to lift a mood or make someone feel seen. That’s what Brighterway helps us do,” they say.

Their dedication reflects the heart of Brighterway, supporting staff wellbeing and patient care with every step they take.

Follow Clare & Kat’s journey on their blog HERE | Donate via JustGiving HERE

Join Us in Supporting These Amazing Runners

Steve, Amber, Clare, and Kat are each running for more than personal achievement — they are running to help Brighterway make a real difference in the lives of NHS staff and patients. Your support can help them reach the finish line and fund projects that matter.

Every donation counts, no matter the size. Click the links to follow their training journeys, read their inspiring stories, and contribute to their fundraising efforts.

Support Steve | Read his blog
Support Amber | Read her blog
Support Clare & Kat | Read their blog

Let’s cheer them on as they prepare for the London Marathon 2026 — together, we can help make every mile matter!

Keep an eye out for updates from our runners as they train, fundraise and prepare to take on London in 2026 — one step at a time, together for Brighterway.

Running for a Brighter Future: Steve’s London Marathon Journey

From Hampshire to the World Stage

Meet Steve, a dedicated NHS professional from Hampshire, who’s gearing up to tackle the London Marathon 2026 in support of Brighterway. After being unsuccessful in the ballot five times, Steve has finally secured a charity place for this once-in-a-lifetime experience — a milestone on his bucket list.

Having worked in the NHS since 1979, Steve has witnessed firsthand the incredible impact Brighterway has on supporting NHS staff to go above and beyond. Now, he’s running to help fund projects that make a tangible difference to the health and wellbeing of people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

A Marathon Journey Full of Dedication

Steve isn’t new to long-distance running. This will be his sixth marathon, following events in Amsterdam, Madrid, Brussels, the scenic 3 Country Marathon across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and most recently, the Manchester Marathon in 2023.

Each race has required dedication, sacrifice, and determination, but Steve says it’s the finish line elation, the crowd support, and the opportunity to raise funds for worthy causes that make it all worthwhile. Running has become more than just a personal challenge; it’s a way for him to stay fit physically and mentally, while giving back to those less fortunate.

The London Marathon: A World Marathon Major

The London Marathon is one of the prestigious World Marathon Majors, alongside Boston, New York, Tokyo, Berlin, Sydney, and Chicago. For Steve, it’s a privilege to take part in such a globally celebrated event and to do so for a charity that holds deep personal significance.

As an amateur musician, Steve also loves the energy from the bands and performers along the route, which help distract from the miles and add to the unforgettable atmosphere of the race. The encouragement from spectators shouting his name is an extra boost that will carry him through each step.

Supporting Steve and Brighterway

Every step Steve takes will contribute to Brighterway’s vital work. From helping NHS staff provide exceptional care to funding projects that enhance local health services, your support can make a real difference.

You can help Steve make every mile matter.

Donations, big or small, will not only fuel his run but also brighten the lives of those who need it most.

Donate to Steve’s JustGiving page and support his London Marathon journey today — together, we can make a brighter future, one step at a time .

Keep an eye out for updates from Steve as he trains, fundraises and prepares to take on London in 2026 — one step at a time, together for Brighterway.

Amber’s Marathon Journey: Running for Brighterway in 2026

From Couch to 26.2 Miles – Amber’s Inspiring Story: Passionate Runner and Fundraiser

Amber, the Admin Team Lead at Elmleigh Hospital in Havant, is taking on an extraordinary challenge in 2026 – running the London Marathon to raise funds for Brighterway and support patients at Elmleigh. What started as a simple goal to get active has turned into an inspiring journey of determination, fitness, and giving back.

A Journey Begun in 2020

Amber discovered her love for running in 2020 through the NHS Couch to 5K programme. Since then, she hasn’t looked back. She has completed multiple Race for Life 5Ks, stepped up to 10Ks – most recently in June – and even tackled the Great South Run. Regular parkruns with friends keep her motivated, while her outdoor adventures, including climbing Snowdon and Scafell Pike, show her love for nature and staying active.

Why Amber is Running for Brighterway

Fundraising for Amber is more than just a challenge – it’s a passion. She is deeply committed to supporting Brighterway and the patients at Elmleigh, knowing that every donation will help provide vital care and services. Amber’s energy, positivity, and determination shine through in her training and fundraising efforts, inspiring everyone around her.

How You Can Help

You can be part of Amber’s journey by sponsoring her London Marathon run. Every contribution – big or small – helps Brighterway continue its amazing work supporting patients at Elmleigh Hospital. Donating is simple, fast, and completely secure via JustGiving, ensuring your support reaches the charity directly.

Support Amber today and help her make every step count.
Visit Amber’s JustGiving page to donate now.

Donating through JustGiving is quick, secure and efficient — your contribution goes straight to the charity, helping Brighterway save time and cut costs so more can go to those who need it most.

Keep an eye on our channels for updates from Amber as she continues her training and countdown to the 2026 London Marathon.

We can’t wait to share her journey with you!

Join us at our Christmas Markets Across Hampshire

This festive season, Brighterway is bringing cheer to communities across Hampshire with a series of Christmas markets. Each event is a wonderful opportunity to shop, discover unique gifts, and support a local cause that makes a real difference to NHS patients, service users, and staff.

Here’s where you’ll find us spreading festive cheer this year:

Winchester Christmas Market – 21st November to 7th December *For opening time please click here
The Greenhouse, Victoria Park, Portsmouth – 9th December 09:00 – 16:00
Petersfield Hospital – 16th December 09:00 – 16:00
Lymington Hospital – 17th December 09:00 – 16:00
The Western Community Hospital – 18th December 09:00 – 16:00
Winchester Christmas Market – 19th December 10:00 – 20:00

Our stalls will be full of festive treats and gift ideas, featuring a variety of Christmas presents, local products, and seasonal produce – perfect for finding something special for your loved ones.

Join Us and Make a Difference This Christmas

Whether you’re searching for unique gifts or festive treats, we’d love to see you at one of our markets.

Bring your family and friends, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and celebrate the season while supporting the NHS heroes who work tirelessly for us all year round.

Step into the magic of Brighterway’s Christmas markets and make this holiday season truly special!

Join the Governors Charity Challenge & help raise £25k for the NHS!

A group of 6 people in a step-a-thon, 3 men and 3 women, walk towards the camera smiling. They are middle aged and dressed in blues and purples.

This autumn, Brighterway invites you to participate in the Governor’s Charity Challenge Step-a-thon. We’re aiming to raise £25,000 for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust! Please join us for this truly special fundraising event.

📅Date: Sunday 5 October
⏰Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm
📍Venue: Victoria Park, Portsmouth

Poter promoting the Brighterway charity step a thon on October 5 2025

What is the Step-a-thon?

The Governors Charity Challenge Step-a-thon is a community charity walk led by Martyn Smith, Public Governor of HIoWNHS and stroke survivor. It’s part of his inspiring personal mission to give back to the NHS.

There’s no set distance – simply set yourself a step target, get friends and family to sponsor you, and join in. Every penny raised will push us towards the £25,000 target. All ages and abilities are welcome. It’s set to be a truly memorable day!

Close up of a woman's lower legs in running tights and running shoes, walking away from the camera on a tarmac path. Other people appear in the background, which features trees and grass. The image has a warm lens flare effect to frame right.

Why Take Part?

✅ Support an incredible cause – help raise £25,000 for Brighterway to fund projects that make a real difference in mental health and community care.
✅ Be inspired by Martyn’s journey – after surviving two strokes, Martyn has set himself the goal of completing 52 marathons, 250 km of swimming, and 2.5 million steps in 2025. He’s already ahead of schedule! Read more about Martyn’s story and achievements here.
✅ Enjoy fitness, fun & history – as you walk, you’ll also benefit from a free guided historical tour of Victoria Park and its Naval Monuments, thanks to our friends at Solent Original Walks.
✅ Get rewarded – every participant will receive a Brighterway goody bag as a thank-you for taking part.

Six middle aged men and women walk in a group, smiling and talking, dressed in comfortable walking and running attire.

How to Join

Taking part is simple:

Set your own walking goal – there’s no pressure, just walk what feels right for you.
Track your steps – using a step app on your phone (like Apple Health) or a pedometer.
Register your place – email phil.pride@southernhealth.nhs.uk or call 07572 147888 to sign up.

A Message from Martyn

“The Governors Challenge is part of my recovery journey and a way to give back to the NHS, who saved my life,” Martyn passionately states. “By joining the Step-a-thon, you’ll not only help me reach my £25,000 fundraising target, but you’ll be supporting a healthier, fitter community for us all. I’d love for you to join me – let’s step forward for a brighter way.”

A smiling man in swimming goggles and swimming cap stands in a swimming pool, resting his arms on the edge.

Take the First Step

Whether you come for the fitness, the history, or the cause itself, the Governors Charity Challenge promises to be a day of community, inspiration, and impact.

👉 Register now with phil.pride@southernhealth.nhs.uk
👉 Support Martyn’s journey and donate here: JustGiving page

Let’s step forward together with Martyn and Brighterway for our NHS.

A middle aged man in a cap stating 'The Long Road' stands in front of an Everyone Active gym with a wood facade and car park behind the man.

UNLOC Team Abseils the Spinnaker Tower for Youth Wellbeing

A smiling man dangles from an abseiling rope against a blue sky background.

Six courageous individuals from team UNLOC will abseil Portsmouth’s iconic Spinnaker Tower in a shared mission to empower young people. You can support them directly – or even join them on the abseil yourself!

On the weekend of 21 – 22 June 2025, six members of the UNLOC team will undertake a daring 100-meter abseil down Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower. This exhilarating challenge aims to raise funds for Brighterway, the charity of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Foundation Trust, supporting initiatives that enhance mental health and wellbeing.

“We’re so proud to be raising money for the amazing young people we are working with in partnership with the Hampshire and IOW NHS Foundation Trust,” enthused an UNLOC team member.

Let’s find out more about each team member’s unique motivation for taking part in the abseil – which is still open for registrations.

The Fearless Fundraisers

Jessica Cowling is passionate about empowering young people to lead on healthcare issues. She believes that providing young individuals with the platform to test their ideas is one of the most empowering ways to help them build life skills and spark meaningful grassroots change.
- Donate to Jess here.

Ben Dowling emphasises the importance of enabling young people to test out their ideas with real funding. He sees this as a truly empowering way to help them develop essential life skills while addressing some of society’s biggest challenges through genuine youth-led grassroots campaigning. “The Unloc team of staff and young people is ready to take on the Spinnaker for a great cause that will see young people taking the lead on shaping healthcare in their areas,” Ben stated.
- Donate to Ben here.

Laura Zamburlini is driven by the belief that giving young people the platform to test their ideas is one of the most empowering ways to help them build life skills and spark meaningful grassroots change.
- Donate to Laura here.

Katie Williamson is motivated by the vision of young people becoming changemakers. She states, “Young people in Hampshire deserve access to opportunities to help them become Changemakers in our world!”
- Donate to Katie here.

Beth and Daisy Hunt: Beth, an UNLOC staff member, and her daughter Daisy, a member of UNLOC’s Youth Board, are taking on this challenge together.
- Donate to Beth and Daisy here.

Meet Beth and Daisy – UNLOC’s Mother-Daughter Abseiling Team

Among the team are UNLOC staff member Beth Hunt and her daughter Daisy, who serves on UNLOC’s Youth Board. They’ll face their nerves – and gravity – side by side.

“Daisy and I are nervous but excited to do this challenge together,” said Beth. “I have a fear of heights, but I’ve conquered it before – I’ve done high ropes, and even a bungee jump in New Zealand before I became a mum! I love new challenges and experiences, and when this opportunity came through UNLOC, we both said ‘yes’ right away.”

She adds, “I’m so pleased Daisy will be by my side as we abseil down the 100 metres of the Spinnaker Tower. It feels like we’re doing something bold for a really important cause, together.”

They’re supporting mental health initiatives like the Young Activators pilot, a BeeWell-funded project that trains young people to create and lead extracurricular activities aimed at reducing loneliness, building confidence, and improving wellbeing among peers in Portsmouth and surrounding areas.

You can support Beth and Daisy directly here.

Supporting the Young Activators Project

The funds raised from the Spinnaker Tower Abseil will directly support UNLOC’s Young Activators pilot project, backed by BeeWell.

This initiative empowers young people to design and lead extracurricular activities that address issues like loneliness, low physical activity, and gender imbalances in extracurricular access. By supporting peer-led projects, the program aims to equip young individuals with the tools to connect, lead, and thrive.

Take part in the Abseil Yourself!

Ever wanted to conquer your fear of heights while doing something with real social value? It’s not too late to enter yourself in the 2025 Brighterway Spinnaker Tower Abseil!

For a £50 registration fee, all equipment and support is provided – Brighterway simply asks that you raise as much money as you can. They’ve recommended a £500 minimum goal, although there’s no penalty for not achieving the target.

About Brighterway

Brighterway is dedicated to enhancing patient care across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Their mission is to provide support for the NHS that goes beyond its core budget, funding projects that improve wellbeing, recovery, and independence for patients and staff.

Notable initiatives include providing Christmas gift bags to 780 inpatients across 65 hospital wards and units, and supporting the Social Inclusion Group, which helps individuals with complex mental health difficulties transition back into the community.

“I’m really looking forward to the abseil, albeit with some nervousness, to raise money for such a brilliant cause,” Mr Dowling concluded.

Brighterway’s Living Memory Trees Grow a Legacy Through Healing Spaces

Four people plant a young tree, with the man closest to camera using a spade.

Brighterway’s Living Memory tree planting initiative launched at Tatchbury Mount as part of its commitment to enhancing NHS green spaces and promoting emotional wellbeing.

In partnership with the Hampshire Forest Partnership, 20 trees – such as Lime, Rowan, Indian Horse Chestnut, Hawthorn, and sturdy Elms – have been planted to help restore lost woodland and create a peaceful, natural environment for all who visit or work at the site.

Four smiling people stand in a row holding shovels and tree planting tools

The Living Memory tree effort supports the wider goal of planting one million trees across Hampshire by 2050, and directly contributes to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s Green Plan for environmental sustainability.

Honour a Loved One with a Tree

You can support this fantastic campaign by adopting a tree in memory of someone special. Each adopted tree includes a unique identity tag and may include a custom Memory Plaque. Think of the trees as living tributes that will grow into lasting symbols of remembrance and renewal.

Suggested donation: £150 (includes tree and plaque – subject to confirmation).

To enquire or register your interest, please email phil.pride@southernhealth.nhs.uk.

A freshly planted young tree stands in its supportive wooden fence in a green space on a Hampshire NHS site.

Greener Spaces for Better Well-being

While the initiative is about environmental stewardship, it’s also intended to improve spaces for healing and recovery. By planting these trees, outdoor areas at NHS sites are being revitalised to provide tranquil, therapeutic environments that support patient recovery, staff morale, and biodiversity.

“Transforming our outdoor areas into beautiful, calming spaces is a vital part of supporting mental health,” says Samuel Ojo, Modern Matron at Southfields. “Many service users benefit from time in nature, and these changes are making a real difference.”

Four people plant a young adult tree outdoors. — From Left to Right: Samuel Ojo, Brian Huggell, Julia Forder, Phil Pride

As the trees take root and grow, they’ll offer shade, beauty, and a sense of connection – creating a green legacy that benefits generations to come.

In the words of Julia Forder, Site Manager at Tatchbury Mount: “While many of us may not be here to see these trees reach full maturity, it’s rewarding to know we’ve contributed to something that will benefit future generations. Our buildings are named after trees, so this project is deeply connected to the site’s history. Seeing these trees grow will be a legacy we can all be proud of.”

Watch our campaign video

Four smiling people work together to plant trees at a Hampshire NHS site

Brighterway Living Memory Tree Planting Initiative Promotes More Green Spaces

Four smiling people stand in a row holding shovels and tree planting tools

Brighterway’s Living Memory Tree Planting Initiative recently planted 20 young adult trees at Tatchbury Mount to support greener NHS spaces. This is part of an ambitious initiative to plant one million trees across the county by 2050, as per Brighterway’s collaboration with Hampshire County Council’s Hampshire Forest Partnership.

The trees – including Lime, Rowan, Hawthorn, Indian Horse Chestnut and the resilient Elm – not only help restore woodlands lost to storms and disease, but also act as living symbols of remembrance and recovery. Further plantings are planned at additional Trust sites in the next planting season.

Supporting mental health and local ecology

Contributing to a wider mental health and well-being enhancement strategy, the trees will transform NHS grounds into calming, restorative environments.

“We are working with Brighterway to completely transform our outdoor areas into spaces that are visually appealing, calming, and stimulating,” reflected Samuel Ojo, Modern Matron at Southfields Low Secure Unit. “Many of our service users enjoy gardening and nature, and having this revitalised space will be hugely beneficial to their mental health and well-being.”

A young adult tree stands in a wooden support fence in a green space near some houses with blue cloudy sky behind.

Brighterway is the charity of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, so their green initiative aligns with the NHS Trust’s environmental sustainability goals and Green Plan. This centres on reducing its ecological footprint while enhancing spaces for staff, patients, and visitors alike. The trees will become living monuments to the values of care, remembrance, and community as they grow.

Four smiling people work together to plant trees at a Hampshire NHS site

Julia Forder, Site Manager at Tatchbury Mount, discussed the initiative’s long-term legacy: “While many of us may not be here to see these trees reach full maturity, it’s rewarding to know we’ve contributed to something that will benefit future generations. Our buildings are named after trees, so this project is deeply connected to the site’s history. Seeing these trees grow will be a legacy we can all be proud of.”

https://youtu.be/c1wEyiVzyvs

A young hawthorn tree standing inside a wooden support fence in front of a green space on a Hampshire NHS site.

Adopt a tree to support Brighterway

Each tree is available for adoption as a living memorial in exchange for a donation to Brighterway. With its own identity tag – and the potential to include a personalised Memory Plaque – each tree offers a deeply personal way to commemorate a loved one while contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.

Send an enquiry or register your interest by emailing phil.pride@southernhealth.nhs.uk.

The suggested donation is £150, which includes both the tree and name plaque. Cost per tree to be confirmed.

Four smiling people stand in a row holding shovels and tree planting tools

Creativity and Kindness: Art with Heart Raises Funds for Project W

Thanks to Portsmouth’s Project W charity, local women can access safe, inclusive spaces offering holistic support services tailored to their needs. And now Brighterway – in partnership with the Personality and Trauma Response Team and Together Space – are raising funds for the local women-led charity via their Art with Heart event on May 1st.

This unique and important event will offer beautiful handmade items in a creativity-fuelled community morning in aid of supporting Project W’s ongoing work with vulnerable women across the city.

What is Project W?

Running every Wednesday and Thursday in Portsmouth between 10AM and 4PM, Project W – Women Empowering Women – provides a supportive space where women can meet with recovery and family workers, receive peer support and consult with mental health professionals.

Project W is a collaborative effort involving organisations such as Advance, Portsmouth City Council, and the Society of St James. This partnership has been especially useful in assisting women experiencing substance misuse or sleeping rough.

The weekly Project W schedule will give you an idea of the diverse services, activities and resources available – there’s everything from acupuncture and alcohol abuse support to mindfulness, cost of living advice and even free lunch! A mental health nurse is available on the first Thursday of every month, and the charity provides onsite childcare every Thursday afternoon from 1- 4PM.

If you’re interested in attending, speak to your key worker or drop in during operating hours:

Days: Every Wednesday and Thursday
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: 67 Kingston Road, Portsmouth, PO2 7DX
Contact: 07464 981 060

‘Art with Heart’ – Raising Funds Through Creativity

Alongside the fundraising efforts of other local organisations, Brighterway’s Art with Heart initiative is your chance to make a real difference in supporting Project W. Attendees will be able to buy beautiful handmade arts and crafts, thoughtful Mindful Gift Bags, and a morning filled with creativity and community.

All proceeds will go towards supporting this vital cause – please come and join us, choose from some fantastic pieces, and donate to support Project W.

🗓 Thursday 1st May 2025

🕙 10AM–1PM

📍 The Greenhouse, Victoria Park, Portsmouth

💻 If you can’t make it, there’s still the chance to donate and support the event online via JustGiving. Your donation will go directly to Brighterway, helping support Project W’s ongoing work with vulnerable women across the city.

Join us in creating change through creativity. 💛