Run for Team Brighterway in the London Marathon 2026
Dreaming of running the iconic London Marathon? Make 2026 your year and run for Brighterway! With four places per year secured for 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029, we’re excited to invite passionate individuals to join us in this life-changing event and help transform healthcare in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Anyone can apply to run for Team Brighterway – this exciting initiative isn’t limited to NHS employees!
Why the London Marathon Matters to Brighterway
The London Marathon isn’t just a race – it’s a globally recognised event that brings together ambition, determination, and community spirit. For Brighterway, a small but influential charity, it represents an unparalleled opportunity to raise vital funds and amplify our mission.
“2026 marks Brighterway’s 25th anniversary, so this milestone ties in perfectly with our participation,” explains Brighterway Fundraising & Marketing Manager Phil Pride. “The funds raised will support projects that directly enhance patient experiences, from therapeutic gardening to interactive mental health activities. These are initiatives not covered by the NHS budget, and every penny truly makes a difference.”
How Your Efforts Make an Impact
Running for Brighterway means supporting vital projects that improve the well-being of patients and NHS staff. From providing specialised equipment to creating green spaces, the funds raised go directly toward making hospitals more welcoming, healing environments.
Phil reiterates that “We aim to highlight activities like gardening, which offer therapeutic benefits to patients. Imagine helping someone find hope through something as simple as planting a seed and watching it grow – that’s the impact you could help us achieve.”
Why Run for Brighterway?
Brighterway’s involvement in the London Marathon stands out because we’re a local charity with a big heart. While large organisations dominate the event, our participation helps us break through and share our story with a wider audience.
“People often don’t realise that Brighterway supports Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Foundation Trust and that we rely entirely on self-generated funding,” Phil expands. “The marathon offers a platform to show how we go beyond the NHS’s capabilities to enrich lives.”
What You Can Expect as Part of Team Brighterway
When you join Team Brighterway, you won’t be running alone. Our dedicated support includes:
- Training Guidance: Personalised advice on fitness, nutrition, and building endurance.
- Fundraising Support: Step-by-step help to create media profiles, reach local sponsors, and maximise tools like JustGiving.
- Race Day Perks: Cheer squads, a dedicated base near the finish line for your supporters, and a chance to celebrate post-race.
- Recognition and Celebration: We’ll honour your achievements with a celebratory event after the marathon, keeping the spirit alive long after race day.
Make a Difference, One Mile at a Time
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking part in the London Marathon, this is your moment to do so with purpose. Not only will you achieve a personal milestone, but you’ll also leave a lasting legacy of care and compassion in your local community.
“Joining Team Brighterway isn’t just about running, it’s about believing in our mission and helping to fund life-changing projects,” says Phil. “This is a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself.”
How to Apply
We would love to have you on Team Brighterway! Anyone can apply. To ensure we can make as much of a difference as possible, please read our entry information and requirements:
- With only four places available each year, spots on Team Brighterway are limited.
- The registration fee is £400.
- Brighterway has set a £10,000 minimum fundraising goal for each applicant
- Brighterway guarantees that the £400 registration fee will be reimbursed when £2,500 of the £10k goal is achieved.
We’re looking for runners who are passionate about fundraising and believe in Brighterway’s mission. To apply, you’ll need to:
- Submit an application detailing your fundraising plans and goals to phil.Pride@southernhealth.nhs.uk
- Pay your registration fee via a donation to: https://justgiving.com/brighterway
Applications for our 2026 marathon places are open now.
Join Us in Celebrating 25 Years of Brighterway
2026 will be a landmark year for Brighterway, and we can’t wait to celebrate it at one of the world’s most inspiring events. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or taking on your first marathon, we’d love for you to be part of our journey.
Take the first step toward making a difference. Run for Brighterway and help us change lives – one stride at a time.