Join the 24-Hour Run Against Homelessness in Manchester

In a powerful display of Manchester’s community spirit, former University of Manchester students are joining forces with running clubs across the city for the sixth annual 24-Hour Run Against Homelessness.

This inspiring event, which began as a small university initiative in 2019, has since blossomed into a beloved community relay run in the heart of the city.

24-Hour Run Against Homelessness

Founded by Thomas Lewis and James Bannister, the event challenges participants to run 5km laps in a continuous 24-hour relay around Manchester’s city centre, with all funds raised supporting the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity and its flagship A Bed Every Night Scheme.

This charity helps people who are homeless or at risk find safe, secure shelter and the support they need to get back on their feet. Since its inception, the 24-hour run has raised over £52,000, funding more than 1,700 beds for those in need.

Reflecting on the event’s humble beginnings, Lewis recalled the early days.

“We didn’t know what to expect with the first event. We were still at uni, and I remember the first two laps were done by just one runner, so we were a little worried we wouldn’t meet our target, which was only £500,” he said.

“But we were quite blown away by the end, seeing over 300 runners turn up and raise an incredible £2,800.”

Support from Andy Burnham

Undeterred by challenges like the pandemic, the team kept the momentum going by hosting a virtual run in 2020, nearly doubling their previous total and covering a combined distance of 2,721km.

By 2021, the event had grown even more, with support from GM Mayor Andy Burnham in 2022, who personally joined the relay.

Since then, the event has continued to gain traction, bringing runners from all over the region together for a cause that matters to Manchester.

Raising £50,000 for charity

This year, the team aims to raise an ambitious £50,000 from noon on Wednesday, November 13 to noon on Thursday, November 14, at a new venue, Freight Island. Manchester residents, organisations, and businesses are encouraged to join the 24-hour group relay, where they can run as many 5km laps as they wish.

With support from local property finance firm Together, which is generously matching donations up to £20,000, the impact of every donation will be doubled.

Fran Darlington-Pollock, Chief Executive of Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, praised the event’s founders and participants for their dedication. “Thomas and James have done incredible work making this event what it is today.

“The donations they’ve secured for the charity have made a substantial impact on helping us turn the tide of homelessness in Greater Manchester,” she says.

“They’ve got a really good team behind them, and it’s great to see the running community across the city region come together to tackle a common goal.”

The charity’s A Bed Every Night scheme, active since 2017, has helped over 6,000 people find shelter and support. Today, it serves 587 individuals who would otherwise be at risk of sleeping rough, offering not only a bed but also comprehensive support to help them reintegrate into society and find lasting stability.

Whether you’re an experienced runner or just want to cheer from the sidelines, this 24-hour relay represents the best of Manchester’s compassionate and resilient community spirit.