Two midwifery students are preparing to take on the Brighton Marathon to raise money for Norfolk domestic abuse charity Leeway.
Hannah Pratten and Emily Wilson, who both study at the University of East Anglia, will take on the 26-mile challenge in April.
The pair found out about the work Leeway does whilst on placement at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH).
Leeway has close links with health professionals, delivering regular training sessions to enable them to spot the signs that a patient may be experiencing domestic abuse.
Working at the NNUH not only gave Hannah and Emily an insight to the lives of some of the women the charity has supported.
They said: 'We decided to run for Leeway as during our training as student midwives we have come across many women who have been exposed to domestic abuse and therefore recognise the invaluable work Leeway do in supporting women and their families.'
National charity Refuge says that more than 30pc of domestic abuse starts during pregnancy and existing abuse may get worse during pregnancy or after birth.
Leeway has supported over 9,000 women, men, children and young people in the last year and has seen a 30pc increase in demand for their services.
Mandy Proctor, Leeway chief executive, said: 'It is really pleasing to hear how Hannah and Emily have been inspired after speaking to some of the women we have supported. I would like to thank them for choosing Leeway and also encourage people to support their fundraising efforts.'
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