From homelessness to the finish line: fundraising for recovery

A year ago, running a 10km race felt completely out of reach for James. At that time, his life looked very different. He had experienced homelessness, was struggling with alcohol and was living day to day without stability or direction. As James explains, “Running a 10km race would have seemed impossible to me. My life looked completely different.”

James’s turning point came when he was able to access alcohol rehabilitation at Michael Varnam House, where Framework provides support. For the first time in ages, he had some of the basics that many people take for granted. “For the first time in a long while, I had warmth, regular meals, and a safe place to sleep,” he says.

Alongside this stability, James was surrounded by people who understood what he was going through. Support from staff, other residents and Framework created an environment where he could begin rebuilding his life. Being in rehab gave him the opportunity to reflect on where he had come from and where he wanted to go. During this time, he began to regain something he had lost for a long time: self‑respect.

As his confidence slowly returned, James began thinking about how he could give something back. Framework had played a major role in supporting him through one of the most challenging periods of his life, and he wanted to show his appreciation. That was when the idea of running a 10km race first came to mind.

At the start, the challenge felt ambitious. James was not particularly fit and he had doubts about whether he could stick to the training. He began by starting small and gradually building up. Early runs took place during the winter months, sometimes in the snow. “Those first runs were tough. The cold air was a shock to my lungs, my legs felt heavy, and there were moments when stopping would have been much easier than continuing,” he recalls. “But I kept going.”

Training was not a smooth process. James faced injuries, physical discomfort and moments of self‑doubt. At times, he questioned whether he would be able to complete the full distance. However, encouragement from other residents at Michael Varnam House and from people connected with Framework made a significant difference. Being reminded why he had started helped him through the difficult days and continue training.

Over time, running became more than just physical exercise. It offered James focus and clarity, and each run served as a reminder that progress was possible. Gradually, his confidence grew alongside the distance he could run.

When race day arrived, standing at the start line in Nottingham was an emotional moment. James reflected on how far he had come, from homelessness and substance use to running a 10km race. Crossing the finish line was and incredible and meaningful feeling for James. “It wasn’t just the achievement of completing the distance it was proof to myself that change is possible,” he says.

James also raised £238 for Framework through the generosity of his sponsors. Completing the race marked an important milestone in his recovery journey and demonstrated what can be achieved with determination, support and belief.

Fundraising that makes recovery possible

James’s story highlights the impact of our work and the importance of fundraising in making this support possible. Fundraising is fundamental to the success of Framework’s services, helping provide safe accommodation, specialist support and opportunities for people to rebuild their lives.

To everyone who fundraises for Framework, thank you. Your generosity and commitment make stories like James’s possible. If you have been inspired by James’s journey, please consider signing up to one of our fundraising events or creating your own challenge to help change lives across Nottinghamshire and beyond.