Run for charity
From 5k to 26.2 miles, how far will you go? We have everything you need to help you reach the finish line, find your personal best and support our vital services.
Do your own run
Register your event using the link below. Then set up you JustGiving fundraising page so your network of friends and family can support your challenge.
Choose your running distance
Fundraising support
Training essentials
Why your support matters
Running for charity FAQs
-
Why run for a cause?
Running for a good cause has a number of benefits both for your chosen charity and for yourself. The biggest benefit to the charity is the much-needed money that your fundraising will provide.
Running events are also a great way to raise awareness for your charity of choice by proudly wearing one of their running vests. Running is a great way to get outdoors, meet like-minded people and stay fit and healthy.
Find the right running event for you. -
How do charity runs work?
There are hundreds of running events that take place across the UK every year and you can raise money for your chosen charity at any of them.
There are also more exclusive events that take place throughout the year. These are much harder to get a place for, and are run through public ballots. These events allocate a number of charity places, which means runners have a second chance at gaining entry to the event.
Take a look at some of the running events where you can represent and support Macmillan. -
How to promote a charity run
Once you have decided which run or challenge you want to take on, the next step is to make as many people as possible aware of it. From kickstarting your fundraising and maximising your fundraising online, to top tips on events day, we can support you.
Check out our fundraising zone for tips and advice.
-
Who takes part in charity runs?
It doesn’t matter if you’ve never put a pair of running trainers on or if you’re the next Sir Mo Farah or Paula Radcliffe, everyone can take part in a charity run.
There are so many running events in the UK each year that cater for a wide range of ages and abilities that we’re sure you will be able to find the perfect event for you. And if nothing catches your eye, then why not create your own running challenge. -
What if I can't find the event I'm running at listed on the website?
Unfortunately we can't be at every running event happening across the UK. However, that doesn't mean you can't sign up to raise funds for Macmillan.
If you can't find your event listed on our Find an Event page then fill in our form to tell us about the event you are taking part in so we can support you. We'll send you helpful tips and tricks to get you ready for your event and raise funds for Macmillan.
Fundraising FAQs
-
I need some help with fundraising ideas, can you help?
We love fundraising and want to help make sure it's as easy as possible for you. We've got lots of ideas to help get the money rolling in.
-
Can I get another sponsorship form?
Yes, you can download another sponsorship form here.
If you don't have access to a printer, you can ask us for one us by emailing running@macmillan.org.uk and we'll post one straight out to you and you can carry on with your fundraising.
-
I’ve done my run, how do I pay the money in?
Paying your money is easy. Find out how.
Planning and preparation
-
How far in the future should I pick a date for my run?
Lots of things can affect how far in advance you plan your run. Will you need to do some training? Will you want to hold extra fundraising events to help you reach your fundraising target?
If you're hoping to lead a long-distance run, how much notice might people need to get it in their diaries?
Most of our runners start planning three to six months before their challenge to give them plenty of time to fit fundraising and training around their busy lives. If you're planning something super ambitious, you might need a bit longer. Don't underestimate the amount of training you may need to do to feel ready for your run, so give yourself plenty of time.
-
What can I do to make sure my run is safe?
Solo running events
If you are taking on a solo challenge, it can be safer - and more fun - to have friends or family meet you at points along the way. If that's not possible, make sure there's someone who knows your route and is waiting to meet you at the end.
Runner's World have released some helpful, up to date guidance about running safely during Coronavirus.
Group running events
If you are leading or organising a run, one of the most important things to do is a risk assessment. This will help you to anticipate and plan for anything that might go wrong. You can find advice about how to do a risk assessment at the Health and Safety Executive.
There's also some useful information on organising your own event from the Institute of Fundraising.
You will also need to consider whether you need insurance. This might be insurance for yourself if you're doing an overseas run, or public liability insurance if you're holding a public event. For private events this may not be necessary.
If you need further advice, get in touch with our Supporter Care team on 0300 1000 200 or by emailing running@macmillan.org.uk.
-
What running gear do I need to take?
This may depend on the type of run you'll be doing. We've got lots of helpful advice to get you prepared for your run.
-
Where can I find help with running training?
We have training plans to get you in tip-top shape. You should also check out our practical tips and information and our guidance on how to stretch, strengthen, and fuel for your run with professional advice from our training partner Running with Us.
Macmillan materials
-
Can I get t-shirts for my event?
Yes, you can buy a technical running t-shirt, water bottles and other useful items from our online shop.
-
How can I get posters and flyers to advertise my event?
You can create your own event materials on be.Macmillan. Once you've registered on the website you can create any materials you need for your event.
Your running stories
Emma started running after her mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. She completed a 10K in 2015 and since then has run the London Marathon three times, all for Macmillan.
"It was really emotional running the London Marathon. By the time I got to mile 22 I was really struggling and thinking, 'I can’t do this'. There was a group of Macmillan supporters there who kept me going and I high fived them all!"