Flora London Marathon

You can make a real difference for children

Run the Flora London Marathon 2009 for the NSPCC and raise vital funds to help end cruelty to children.

We will support you every step of the way with expert training advice, a sponsorship pack and running vest, dedicated cheering teams around the course and a well-earned massage at our post-race reception.

Call 0207 825 2621 or email marathon@nspcc.org.uk

NSPCC Therapeutic Services - Errol’s story

Errol (14) was referred to the NSPCC after being abused by a close family friend over a period of time.

Errol came to the NSPCC therapeutic team on a weekly basis. As a result of his abuse, he was suffering from frequent nightmares, experiencing feelings of betrayal and guilt. He was underperforming at school, had a negative body image and a constant, intense fear.

During his sessions with the therapeutic team, Errol worked side-by-side with his counsellor over a period of 15 months. Using a variety of techniques, such as letter and poetry writing, checklists and personal measuring scales, he slowly worked through his trauma symptoms. As a result of this regular counselling, Errol learned not to blame himself for what had happened and his anger began to subside. His nightmares became less frequent and he began to recover his self esteem.

The NSPCC helped to prepare and support Errol and his family through a lengthy court process and liaised closely with the police CARE unit and the judiciary. At the end of the trial Errol’s abuser was successfully prosecuted.

The NSPCC was able to help Errol and his family come to terms with the effects of his abuse from the outset, helping them all to manage their feelings of guilt and shock. A member of the family said that without the help of the NSPCC, she didn’t think the family could have managed.

Errol’s mum said: "The NSPCC is brilliant. It definitely helped Errol and myself."