One Step Forward: My Half Marathon for SRASAC

You may have noticed that I am training for the Sheffield Half Marathon, but I would like to tell you a little about why. If you are able to donate, or share my story, I will pop the link below.

Link to my Fundraising Page

In the UK, it is reported that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will experience sexual violence in their lifetime, but only 15% of cases are reported to the police, and even fewer result in convictions. In 2021, this figure was 3% - and it's still falling.

That means 97% of cases go unpunished. SRASAC is the lifeline that not only this 97%, but also the 3% who are successful, rely on to navigate some of the most traumatic and discouraging months and years imaginable. Without this work, many survivors wouldn't be able to recover and rebuild their lives. Our lives.

The counselling team at SRASAC, and my ISVA workers, saved my life too. When I felt like my world had ended, and I couldn't see a way out, SRASAC was a lifeline. I was 17.

There's a powerful moment from Jodie Comer's monologue in Prima Facie which I will share with you before I tell you a little bit about what SRASAC does:

From 17 to 19, I relied SRASAC for support, and I am eternally indebted to these wonderful people for their support - support that wouldn't have been possible without donations and fundraising from people just like me and you.

SRASAC supports adults and children in Sheffield who have been victims of sexual violence and assault, offering counselling, advocacy, and support to help individuals rebuild their lives after trauma. Their services save lives, and funding is essential to ensure that these services remain available and accessible to all. Every donation helps SRASAC continue their work, raise awareness, and advocate for those who need it most.

Thank you for listening.

Melie x