A man will be running a half marathon later this year to raise money for a women’s refuge.

Uzair Shafique said he was moved to take action and raise vital funds for Humraaz Support Services in Blackburn after hearing about the plight of the women who depend on the service.

Uzair said, “I have run three 10K runs, one half marathon, climbed Mount Snowdon and also competed in an amateur boxing fight last year. 

“I thank God for giving me another chance this year to help with another project, Humraaz Support Services. 

“I've visited Humraaz myself to meet the staff and heard first-hand of the life changing work they offer along with a personal account from a young woman which had me in tears.

“I just imagined my sister or mother in her position and it was just impossible to do so. 

“But this is happening, we all know it. Forced marriages, cultural practices which treat women as slaves in their homes and when they are kicked out or forced to leave their home with their children, where are they supposed to go?

“Humraaz Support Services empowers BME women with education and life skill opportunities and offers holistic support for those who have endured trauma and suffering.”

Uzair will be running the half marathon in Norway on September 15th.

“I was very close to entering the full marathon this year but due to Ramadan and lack of time and training, I wouldn't have been able to do it. Therefore, I am going to Oslo, Norway, the country where I was born and bred to compete in the BMW Oslo Half Marathon.”

Training is now underway for Uzair and he is hoping to beat his time from the Birmingham half marathon which he completed in 2 hours and 15 mins. 

He said, "I didn't train much for the Birmingham run and really regretted it. This time round I am making sure I'm fully prepared and inshAllah will beat my previous best."

Firoza Mohmed, Service Manager at Humraaz said, "We are delighted that Uzair is fundraising for Humraaz.  Our service has been hit by austerity cuts and was sadly knocked back from a number of UK charities.  I would urge donors to support grassroots organisations who deliver life changing work.
 
"We really appreciate Uzair’s commitment in raising funds and wish him all the best in the run."

You can donate directly by visiting Uzair’s MyDonate page here