Havens Hospices provides expert, compassionate care to adults and children living with incurable and complex conditions across Essex. Every step of the 26.2-mile course helps ensure the charity can continue ‘Making every day count’ for the families who rely on it.

Runners who join Team Havens for the London Marathon aren’t just running 26.2 miles – they’re joining a supportive community with an incredible benefit package. Runners get access to a closed WhatsApp group to connect with the fundraising team, experienced runners and fellow Team Havens members, alongside a complimentary Havens Hospices running vest. There are monthly training runs from Little Havens Hospice at a variety of distances to suit all abilities, with breakfast and refreshments waiting once runners have completed their chosen route, plus discounted sports therapy sessions to help with preparation. On the day itself, runners benefit from coach travel straight to the start line and an unforgettable atmosphere as Havens Hospices volunteers cheer the team along the route, before celebrating with a BBQ afterwards to mark the achievement. Team Havens runners also receive a 20% discount at RunActive to help with essential running kit.

Whether running in memory of someone, for the challenge, or simply to give back, Havens Hospices will be with its runners every step of the way.

Previous Team Havens runners have spoken of the difference the charity’s support made to their marathon journey, including Caroline Ahmet, who ran for Havens Hospices in 2024. She said: “The team at Havens Hospices is what got me through, they were all so supportive and planned group long runs which without them and feeling part of a team, I never would have lasted the long training runs. I made some amazing new friends who shared my journey, who will be friends for life. I honestly can’t put into words how emotional this journey is, and marathon day is just the cherry on the cake. Although it’s you that runs, it’s totally a shared experience.”

Susie May, Fundraising Officer at Havens Hospices, who supports Team Havens runners, said: “Joining Team Havens is about so much more than the marathon itself. We’re there to support our team from the moment they sign up right through to crossing that finish line.

“As a charity which receives very limited government funding and is not part of the NHS, we must raise more than £225,000 each week to be there for every baby, child, young person and adult that needs us. Every year, the funds raised from the London Marathon are vital to continuing our expert care and support across the county.”

Anyone who has received a ballot place for the London Marathon 2027 and would like to run for Havens Hospices can find out more and sign up at www.havenshospices.org.uk/londonmarathon or email londonmarathon@havenshospices.org.uk

Published 13th August 2026