Join Team Next Chapter at London’s Big Half 2026

Sun 6th Sep 2026

Have you ever wanted to take part in one of London’s most exciting running events while making a real difference to people’s lives?

We’re thrilled to be taking part in The Big Half 2026, and we’re inviting supporters to join Team Next Chapter on the start line.

The Big Half is a vibrant half marathon that takes runners through the heart of London, celebrating community, diversity and the joy of running. Whether you’re an experienced runner or taking on your first 13.1 miles, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Run for The Next Chapter

By running for The Next Chapter, you’ll be helping us support people who have experienced domestic abuse and need help to rebuild their lives safely and independently.

Every mile you run and every pound you raise helps us continue our vital work in the community.

You won’t be doing it alone either, our team will support you with encouragement, fundraising tips and plenty of cheer along the way.

Inspired by our runners

When we first took part in The Big Half, two of our amazing staff, Bev and Coral, proudly ran for The Next Chapter.

Their determination and dedication helped raise vital funds and awareness for our charity. We’d love to see more supporters follow in their footsteps this year.

Secure one of our final places

Places for The Big Half are extremely limited and we now have just a few charity places remaining.

To join Team Next Chapter, runners are asked to:

• Pay a £50 non-refundable registration fee
• Commit to raising a minimum of £500 in sponsorship

Every penny raised will help us continue supporting those affected by domestic abuse.

Be part of something special

Running The Big Half is more than just completing a race. It’s about joining a community, challenging yourself, and making a real difference.

If you’ve been looking for a reason to take on a new challenge in 2026, this could be it.

Apply for your place today

If you’d like to run The Big Half 2026 for The Next Chapter, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Click the link below and complete our short application form to apply for a charity place.

Apply here

Let’s run together, raise vital funds, and change lives - one mile at a time.

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Tech abuse occurs within intimate relationships, where perpetrators exploit digital tools to extend their control beyond physical interactions, creating an invisible, omnipresent threat.

Common methods of tech abuse in domestic settings include the installation of spyware, or ‘stalkerware’ on victims' devices to monitor their activities secretly. Abusers often use GPS tracking to follow their partners' movements and employ social media platforms to harass, impersonate, or publicly shame their victims. This digital manipulation enables abusers to maintain control even when they are not physically present, deepening the victim's sense of isolation and helplessness.

A particularly invasive tactic is the unauthorised access to victims' personal accounts. Abusers may read private emails and messages, monitor social media interactions, and access sensitive information such as photos, financial details, or location data. This breach of privacy not only strips victims of their sense of security but also provides abusers with information they can use to further manipulate and control their partners.

The impact of tech abuse in domestic contexts is profound. Victims often experience heightened anxiety, fear, and a pervasive sense of being watched. The abuse can lead to significant emotional and psychological trauma, compounding the harm inflicted by physical or verbal abuse. Additionally, the digital nature of tech abuse means that victims may find it difficult to seek help, as abusers can monitor their attempts to reach out to support services or law enforcement.

N, a Next Chapter Domestic Abuse Practitioner, said:

“I had a client where the perpetrator was using the victims’ online bank account to send them messages in the reference line for deposits – the perpetrator would deposit 1p and send the victim a message, which would come up when they went into their back account online... it left them feeling like there was no escape – the perpetrator was able to intrude on the victim everywhere...”

Often, the perpetrator will exploit any accounts they know the victim has to harass them. This could be from personal profile accounts like Facebook, all the way to online shopping platforms like eBay.

If you’ve been affected by any of the themes raised in this article, or are concerned about the direction your relationship is heading – click the ‘get help’ button above or call our friendly team on 0330 333 7 444

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When we say, “everyone knows someone”, it’s not a figure of speech.

It’s a reality. Many of us have a friend, a colleague, a family member or an acquaintance who is experiencing abuse at home - or we may even know someone affected without realising.

In the UK, one in five adults experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. So, if you know five people, the chances are you know someone who is or will be affected.

At Next Chapter, we believe that standing up, reaching out, and holding space for someone is one of the most powerful ways we can all make a difference.

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse is not just a moment of anger, or a one-off incident. It’s a pattern of behaviour carried out by someone to gain power and control in an intimate or family relationship. Behaviours may be controlling, coercive, threatening, humiliating, isolating - or physical or sexual violence.

In short: abuse is always underpinned by power and control.

Someone you care about may not even recognise what’s happening as “abuse”. It might be financial manipulation, stalking, digital surveillance, or emotional abuse. The person harming them might even tell them it’s normal, or that “it’s not that bad”. But when you pay attention, support becomes possible.

How domestic abuse can impact someone

Domestic abuse affects every part of a person’s life. It can cause fear, anxiety, isolation, and loss of confidence. Many people experience sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, or changes in mood. It can affect their work, friendships, and finances - sometimes even their housing or immigration status.

Because the effects reach so deeply, it can take time for someone to recognise what’s happening or to feel ready to talk about it. Noticing changes - like withdrawal, unexplained absences, or visible stress - can be early indicators that something isn’t right.

How you can support someone you believe is experiencing abuse

Starting a safe conversation

If you’re worried about someone, it can be hard to know what to say. You don’t need the perfect words - what matters is showing care and openness. Choose a calm, private moment, and gently share what you’ve noticed.

You might say:

I’ve noticed you don’t seem yourself lately - is everything okay?

I’m here if you ever want to talk about what’s going on.

You deserve to feel safe and supported.

Avoid pressing for details or making assumptions. A simple, non-judgemental question can open a door - and help someone start to confide when they’re ready.

If you’re worried about someone else - a friend, partner, parent, co-worker - there are practical, compassionate ways to help. At Next Chapter, we encourage you to:

1. Listen and believe

If someone chooses to open up to you about the abuse, it’s already a brave step. Acknowledge their courage. They’ve put a lot of trust in you. Let them express themselves without interruption or judgement. Saying “I believe you” can matter more than you know.

Avoid telling them what you would do, or what they should do. Instead: “I’m here for you,” “You’re not alone,” “You don’t deserve this,” “It’s not your fault.” These words matter.

2. Let them make their own choices

Abuse often strips someone of control. So, while it’s instinctive to want to fix things quickly - to rescue or decide for them - what matters most is respecting their options. Encourage, but don’t push. It may not feel like the “right time” yet. The person will know how to keep themselves safe, so don't encourage them to do something that might put them in more danger. The best thing is to encourage them to seek expert support and advice.

3. Know your boundaries - and your safety

Supporting someone should never mean putting yourself in harm’s way. If there’s immediate danger, call the police or another emergency service.  
If you’re interacting with the person being abused: avoid confronting the alleged abuser or being seen as a threat to the relationship - this may escalate things.

4. Use safe, empowering language

Avoid judgement, blame or “should” statements that put pressure on the person. For example:

Don’t say: “If I were you, I’d leave.”

Instead: “I understand how complex this is. I’m here for you.”

Don’t say: “What did you do to provoke them?”

Instead: “You deserve to feel safe. None of this is your fault.”

5. Offer information and support options

You don’t need to have all the answers - but pointing them to expert help can be a lifeline. Let them know there are confidential services, helplines, and local support tailored to survivors.

In Essex, Compass is the port of call for anyone affected by domestic abuse. We work closely with them, and partner agencies, to ensure every survivor is given the most appropriate support possible.

We’ve put together an option map to help guide you:

Why we say “Everyone Knows Someone”

Because abuse doesn’t happen in isolation. Because the ripple effects reach beyond the person directly harmed - into workplaces, friendships, families, communities. Because silence allows abuse to continue, and because one person reaching out can change the story.

If you think you might know someone who is being hurt - trust that instinct. You don’t need to have proof. You don’t need to wait for them to ask for help. Sometimes what matters is simply being someone who is there.

A few things to remember

• You’re not alone. Many people feel unsure what to say or do - and that’s okay.

• Small actions count. A text, a safe meeting, a listening ear: these can matter hugely.

• You matter too. Supporting someone else can be emotionally demanding. Make sure you have your own support network.

If you believe someone is in immediate danger

If the person you are worried about is at risk of physical harm right now, call emergency services (in the UK: 999) without delay. Their safety comes first. Then you can help them access the longer-term support they need.

How Next Chapter can help

At Next Chapter, we’re committed to raising awareness and support around domestic abuse. We offer:

• Resources & guides for friends, family and colleagues of people experiencing abuse.

• Ways to access safe, local support services.

• Community networks to help people feel less isolated.

• Training and workshops to help people recognise and respond to signs of abuse.

If you’re reading this and thinking: Yes - this is someone I know, then you’re already doing something.

Making an active effort to care, notice and reach out - that matters. No one has to face domestic abuse alone. And by being there, you can help turn isolation into connection, fear into safety, silence into support.

If you're outside of Essex, you can find alternative support options near you by using the Women's Aid Directory.

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In early 2024, Sasha self-referred to Next Chapter. From the very first conversation, it was clear that she was carrying an immense weight - fear, guilt, and a deep sense of feeling broken. As she described it at the time: “I didn’t know how to put myself together again.”

Sasha is a mother of four - three boys from a previous marriage, and a daughter with her abuser. She had worked as a prison officer in a high-security unit, supporting those convicted of serious crimes such as rape, murder, and terrorism. Despite her strength and professional experience, Sasha found herself in an overwhelming situation that no one should have to face alone.

When Sasha began working with us, she had already reported the abuse to the police and was in the process of applying for a Non-Molestation Order. Her abuser still had contact with their daughter, which caused significant distress - Sasha knew too well the kind of danger he posed.

Rebuilding Confidence and Control

Our work together focused on rebuilding Sasha’s confidence and helping her understand the dynamics of abuse. She carried deep guilt, particularly about the abuse her sons experienced - even though she hadn’t known about it at the time. A major part of our work was helping Sasha recognise that she was not to blame. That shift - from guilt to understanding - was the beginning of her empowerment.

We supported Sasha in raising safeguarding concerns with Social Care - four in total. While each was initially closed, the pattern that emerged formed crucial evidence for court proceedings. This ultimately helped to secure a decision to stop all contact between the perpetrator and their daughter.

We also worked closely with police. After giving her initial statement, Sasha felt she hadn’t said everything she needed to. She was ready to let it go, but we encouraged her to speak up again, in her own time - and supported her in arranging a second statement. This became a powerful step in reclaiming her voice.

Throughout the process, Sasha was guided to report every breach of the Non-Molestation Order, no matter how “minor” it seemed. There were moments when she felt like giving up. In those times, it was our role to remind her of her strength and the importance of seeking justice - not just for herself, but for her children too.

A Space to Be Heard

What stood out most about Sasha was her openness. She allowed herself to feel - every emotion, from rage to vulnerability - and she trusted that our space was a safe one. That trust became a foundation for her growth. Having her feelings validated by someone who understood the dynamics of abuse helped Sasha begin to trust herself again.

We worked together through topics like:

• Red flags in relationships

• Boundaries

• The cycle of abuse

• Building healthy relationships

By the end of our support, the change in Sasha was powerful and clear. She was no longer the broken person who had first called - she was informed, empowered, and grounded in her own strength.

The Impact on Practice

Sasha’s journey also had a profound effect on her Domestic Abuse Practitioner (DAP).

Her feedback reminded them of the real, lasting impact we can have.

Supporting Sasha also helped her DAP grow professionally. They became more confident in “elegantly challenging” professionals when needed - something they had done before but now do with greater clarity and assurance.

Several months after we completed our work together, Sasha reached out with a message of thanks. It was a powerful reminder: the support we offer isn’t just about getting through a crisis. It’s about transformation, healing, and laying the foundation for a safer future.

From July through to the end of September, Tesco shoppers in Colchester can support Next Chapter through the Tesco Stronger Starts programme – just by picking up a blue token when you shop.

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We’re using this opportunity to improve the garden at our family refuge, giving the children we support more space to laugh, play and just be kids – and giving the women we care for a peaceful space to breathe and begin again.

Your vote can help us make this vision a reality.

Here’s How You Can Help:

1) Shop at a participating Tesco store in Colchester

2) Pick up a blue token at checkout (you’ll get one per transaction – no need to buy a bag!)

3) Pop your token into the box labelled “The Next Chapter – Big House Garden”

The more votes we receive, the more funding we can unlock – up to £1,500!

This is a chance for the community to come together and show support for families rebuilding their lives. Every token brings us closer to a brighter, greener space for healing and joy.

Thank you for standing with us – and for being part of something so hopeful.

You can vote for us at the following Tesco stores:

Colchester Express (Store 2118)

Colchester 2 Superstore (Store 2310)

Colchester Extra (Store 2326)

Colchester St Johns Express (Store 3131)

Colchester Magdalen Express (Store 4396)

Colchester Bromley Road Express (Store 5140)

Colchester Crouch Street Express (Store 5343)

To put it bluntly, we’re deeply disappointed by the Government’s recent Spending Review, which fails to directly recognise the government’s manifesto commitment to halve violence against women and girls (VAWG) within the next decade.

While we welcome their investment in social housing - recognising the critical role affordable housing plays in helping survivors recover and rebuild - and the previously announced funding for the justice system, including support for the Probation Service and additional resources for the Police, these investments in statutory services fall short without dedicated funding for the specialist victim services we provide every day.

Without this, the Government is failing to fully meet its commitment to keeping women and children safe.

As highlighted by Women’s Aid in their statement, despite the Government's original pledge, there was no explicit mention of violence against women and girls or targeted funding for specialist services in the Chancellor’s announcement.

This omission has real consequences. Services like ours; refuges, helplines, and outreach programmes are already under immense strain. We know this too well.  

Next Chapter echoes the calls for a clear funding plan. We urgently need:

• Multi-year investment in specialist VAWG services - especially those led by and for minoritised women - to ensure stability and cultural competence.

• Transparency and accountability: clear allocations, reporting, and benchmarks to track progress toward the manifesto goal.

• Cross-departmental engagement: commitments from departments like Education, Health, and Justice to align policies, early intervention, and prevention strategies.

• Support for specialist infrastructure: adequate resourcing for refuges, helplines, outreach, and prevention programmes to reduce wait times.

This Spending Review had the potential to be a turning point. Instead, it falls short, signalling a worrying gap between political promise and practical action. Next Chapter urges the Treasury and relevant departments to urgently address these omissions through additional funding announcements and transparent multi-year funding frameworks.

Women and girls deserve more than rhetoric - they deserve a funded plan that matches ambition – and promise.

Read the statement from our partners at Women’s Aid: Women’s Aid responds to the Spending Review which failed to acknowledge VAWG despite government manifesto pledge - Women’s Aid

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