The London Marathon

Sunday 26th April 2026

The London Marathon

Sunday 26th April 2026

Funds raised by our marathon team are vital to allow us to continue our long term support of so many local core groups, who receive little or no funding elsewhere. The examples given below give a taste of how their efforts have ‘made a difference’ – thank you.

All Star’s Senior Group – Funds given to cover costs involved in the running of a weekly disco for over 18’s – all of whom have special educational needs/disabilities/autism. Additional funds were given to hire a local cinema to enable severely autistic young adults to enjoy films in a safe environment. Often visiting a regular cinema is too much stimulation and proves problematic for them and their parents/carers to regulate their behaviour.

Our ongoing project in conjunction with AGE UK Solihull continues offering financial assistance to the elderly who cannot afford a TV License. In so many cases TV provides the company that those living alone need.

Moseley and Sparkbrook Toy box appeal – a donation to cover 60 Toy boxes for children forced to leave their homes to escape domestic abuse.

Victoria School – 10 severely disabled children together with their very necessary one to one carers will enjoy a holiday at Butlins later this year.

Specialised P Pod seat for 14-year-old girl who has Pitt Hopkins Syndrome, is non-verbal and a wheelchair user. This P Pod will allow her to spend time out of her wheelchair by giving her the customised support her body needs.

Birmingham Phab Camps (Adventure Camps) – A number of camps were held in 2025 giving disabled children/young people the opportunity of taking part in outdoor challenges and activities they have never before encountered and where their disability is not seen as a barrier.

Priory Park Boxing Club – A boxing fitness group, free to all veterans from Army, Fire and Ambulance services. These classes are held weekly and is followed by a ‘chat’ session which has proved invaluable to so many.

12-year-old boy with the life limiting condition, leukodystrophy, epilepsy and autism requires high level supervision to keep him and those around him safe as he has no understanding of dangerous situations and risks with his actions. A specialised magnetic safety harness was needed to keep him safe when travelling by car.

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Assuming that you are able to run the shortest route, most people who complete the London Marathon will run, at least, an extra half a mile. However, the hardship suffered is minimal compared to those helped by their efforts; for many of them just getting through every day is a marathon. This year we have a determined and dedicated team of 4 running to our support the charity.

We wish all the marathon team who are truly ‘Making a Difference’ the best of luck on 26th April in London!

If you would like to run for WAAMAD charity in future London Marathons please contact us via email.

Basil Stevens WAAMAD

Basil Stevens

I've never run a marathon, half marathon, or even a 10km race. But I love a challenge, and am absolutely delighted to say that in 2026, I'll be running the London Marathon in support of a fantastic charity - We Are All Making a Difference. WAAMAD distributes funds on a needs basis to individuals and organisations that often struggle to raise funds for themselves.

Over the years, they've supported a huge range of initiatives; from children's hospices and community projects for the disabled, to providing Christmas for the elderly and granting wishes to children with terminal illnesses. It's a wonderful charity with no overheads, and I feel very lucky to be able to play a small part in their story.
Robert Wormald

Robert Wormald

I’m Rob, 32 and a financial adviser from Solihull; I'm hoping my professional knowledge will ease me towards my fundraising target !!!

I am delighted to be running the 2025 London Marathon for We Are All Making A Difference (WAAMAD), a local charity to the West Midlands which supports so many individuals, organisations and those who need it most. I have personal knowledge of some of the extraordinary work the charity does.

I previously ran the London Marathon in 2018. As a keen runner, I complete the 5 kms Parkrun in under twenty minutes. I’m training hard for the London Marathon 2025, aiming to go under 3hrs 30mins.

WAAMAD supports significant causes and continues to grant wishes, making memories for so many that are less fortunate. It truly is a fantastic charity raising money for the heart of the local community. Your support and any donations would be greatly appreciated as I take on the 26.2 miles challenge in April.
Belle Banwell

Belle Banwell

I am so excited (and a little nervous!) to be running the 2026 London Marathon for We Are All Making A Difference (WAAMAD). This will be my first marathon and my goal is to make it across the finish line! Supporting an amazing charity and the work they do is what’s keeping me motivated.

I have, for many years, closely seen the incredible work that WAAMAD does and feel very fortunate to be a part of the team this year. WAAMAD provides incredible support and continue to grant meaningful wishes to those in need; they truly are a wonderful charity.

Any form of support you can offer would mean so much as I take on this challenge and work towards completing the London marathon!
rich darwin

Rich Darwin

Hi Everyone,

I’m Rich Darwin and this will be my 2nd time running the London Marathon for the 'We Are All Making A Difference' (WAAMAD) charity. I last completed the VLM London marathon back in 2019 and I loved the experience that much I have been tempted back to do it all again.

Any support for this amazing charity will be gratefully received as 'EVERY PENNY DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE'.