Andy Burnham becomes first sitting PM to run the Great North Run as he raises funds for homelessness charity
The Prime Minister is running for Changing Lives after pledging to end rough sleeping by Christmas. He said: "Tackling homelessness is a moral mission for me."
Andy Burnham has become the first sitting Prime Minister to take on the Great North Run, running in support of homelessness charity Changing Lives.
The PM, who has previously completed the iconic half-marathon several times during his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester, is raising money for the charity after visiting its Alex's Place facility in Newcastle with Housing Secretary Angela Rayner.
He said: "I'm running the Great North Run for Changing Lives because I've seen the difference they make with my own eyes. A few weeks back I visited Alex's Place in Newcastle to launch our drive to offer everyone a route off the streets by Christmas."
He added: "I sat down with residents over a cup of tea and heard what it actually takes to rebuild a life once you've lost everything. Not just a roof, but people who stick with you while you find your feet again. That's what Changing Lives does."
Burnham said: "Tackling homelessness is a moral mission for me. It's why I promised to end rough sleeping on my first day as PM, and why I'm proud to pull on a Changing Lives shirt today. If you can spare a few quid, please chip in and support them."
This year's Great North Run is celebrating its 45th anniversary, with more than 60,000 participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Andy Burnham running the Great North Run?
- He is participating to raise money and awareness for Changing Lives, a charity dedicated to supporting homeless individuals and providing housing assistance.
- What is the Changing Lives charity?
- It is an organisation that helps vulnerable people, including rough sleepers, rebuild their lives by offering both accommodation and long-term personal support.
- What pledge has been made regarding homelessness?
- A recent initiative, launched alongside Housing Secretary Angela Rayner, aims to offer rough sleepers a reliable route off the streets by Christmas.