Run the River

Over 2,000 runners took part in our 2023 event to help children facing the biggest barriers get the education they deserve and fulfil their potential.

We'll be back in 2024. We hope to see you on the start line.

For 20 years, we've been improving the life chances and choices for children facing the biggest barriers. We believe education is the most powerful tool to help a child fulfil their potential. Children living in poverty have to overcome more challenges to succeed at school – and in life.  

Help us to power up every child’s potential.

Join our twilight charity run along the Thames.

Run the River 2023

In 2023, we returned to the banks of the Thames for our twilight run with a mass event or online option to choose from, there’s never been an easier way to take part.

We had over 2,000 runners and raised an incredible £250,000.

A big well done and thank you to everyone who took part.

Participants at the end of Run the River 2023 taking a group photo

Volunteer

Run the River wouldn’t be possible without a team of brilliant and enthusiastic volunteers. If you want to join our team of volunteers Run the River 2024 then register your interest.

Images from Run the River 2023

You can see some of the highlights from last year’s event below. We welcome everyone to take part this year too - all ages and abilities.

Runner at Tower Bridge during Run the River 2023

Runners smiling and waving at camera during Run the River 2023

Massive group photo with all participants from Run the River 2023 before starting

Volunteer handing out medals at the finish line of Run the River 2023

I was drawn to take part because I experienced inequality in our education system first-hand. When I completed the race, I felt like all my hard work in fundraising and training paid off and I had achieved something great.

Run the River 2022 runner

In the UK, one in four children live in poverty.

All children have big dreams. But not every child gets the opportunities they need to thrive in school.

Children living in poverty only have half the chance of fulfilling their potential at school than their wealthier classmates. You can change this by signing up and showing your support with Run the River. Help power the potential in our young people by fundraising or donating to support the pupils who need it the most.

With your help, we can ensure all children can have the future of their choice.

What would you be running for?

Well, imagine you’re out for a run with a friend. Their half of the route is clear, yet yours is lined with extra challenges. Unfair, right? But that’s what our education system is like for children living in poverty.

They face more challenges to succeed at school and in life.  And, since the pandemic, the hurdles preventing them from succeeding at school – and in life – are even higher. Children deserve to have access to the great teachers, brilliant leaders and role models they can relate to in order to thrive.

With your help, we can ensure all children have the future of their choice. Join our twilight charity run along the Thames.

Runner from Run the River 2023 running across Tower Bridge

Help us power their potential

With your support, we can reach the UK's children experiencing poverty and give them the opportunities they deserve.

Donate now

Get in touch with us for more information on donating or fundraising to support our work.

Our partnership with Citi

The money raised from Run the River will help us to support young people who face the biggest challenges. We're proud that this year Citi will be the headline sponsor of the event as part of their inspiring e for education campaign. We’re proud to be a beneficiary of this campaign for the 11th year running.