RUNNERS and walkers are invited to sign-up early for the 2027 Southampton ABP Marathon, half marathon, 10K or 5K to raise funds for a charity supporting isolated people citywide (September 2026).
Communicare has 15 charity places available, more than ever before, and has launched its recruitment drive earlier than usual to help fill them ahead of race day in April 2027.
Communicare Manager, Annie Clewlow, explains: “Whether you’re an experienced runner chasing a personal best, someone looking for a new challenge, or simply enjoy walking and want to support a Southampton cause, we’d love you to join Team Communicare.
“We have 15 charity places available this year, which is more than we’ve previously had, so we’ve decided to launch our search for runners and walkers earlier than usual. We’ve also reduced our minimum fundraising pledges because we want as many people as possible to have the opportunity to take part and support our work.
“Every pound raised helps us continue supporting lonely and isolated people of all ages across Southampton through services such as befriending, transport, shopping assistance and our good neighbours’ network. The demand for our help continues to grow and fundraising events like this make a real difference.
“Our mission is to boost social connectedness across the city. We know how significantly loneliness can impact both physical and mental wellbeing and every person who joins our marathon team will be helping us continue providing vital support to people who need it most.”
The ABP Southampton Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 11, 2027, from 9am. Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon distance.
Communicare welcomes runners and walkers of all abilities.
Annie adds: “Please don’t feel that you need to be a seasoned runner to take part. The event is suitable for all levels and the shorter distances can be completed by walking. Whether you run, walk, or combine the two, you’ll be part of an amazing experience while helping people of all ages in your community.”
Those applying for one of Communicare’s charity places are asked to pay a £10 registration fee and commit to a minimum fundraising pledge of £35 for the 5K, £60 for the 10K and the half marathon, or £100 for the full marathon.
“Of course, we’d encourage everyone to raise as much as possible above these minimum targets, as every extra pound allows us to help more people across Southampton.”
Participants joining Team Communicare will receive one of the charity’s official event places, a Communicare technical fabric T-shirt to wear on race day, fundraising support and advice, and plenty of support and encouragement throughout their training and on the day itself.
In addition, ABP Southampton Marathon organisers provide all charity runners and walkers with a free finishers’ T-shirt. Non-charity participants are charged £20 for this item.
Communicare is currently supporting hundreds of individuals and families across Southampton through services including befriending, transport to appointments and shopping assistance. The charity relies on volunteers, fundraisers and donations to continue its work.
Anyone interested in joining Team Communicare for the 2027 ABP Southampton Marathon can contact the charity on 023 8250 0050 or email events@communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.
Annie adds: “If you know someone who has been thinking about setting themselves a challenge, improving their fitness or giving something back to their community, please encourage them to get in touch. Together we can help ensure fewer people in Southampton face loneliness and isolation alone.”
For more information visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.
