12 months and 2,026km: how a night sleeping out inspired me
From January 1st to December 31st, Social Bite supporter Jamie is taking on an epic challenge of running 2,026 kilometres – the equivalent of more than 48 marathons in a year!
Now halfway into his 2026 challenge, we caught up with Jamie to ask how he’s staying motivated, the highs and lows he’s faced so far, and what drives him to keep running in support of Social Bite’s mission to end homelessness.
“The company I work for has been supporting Social Bite over the last few years, and I have taken part in various activities, but the inspiration for my 2026 challenge came after taking part in a Big Sleep Out in October 2025.
“Throughout the night I was shocked at just how uncomfortable I was, especially with the constant noise of the city keeping me up and losing that sense of security you have in your own home. I couldn’t imagine what it would be like to experience that night after night.
“Over the next few days, I reflected on the experience and set about thinking up a challenge which wouldn’t be over in a single event, or a single day, but instead something that would force me to go on day after day. My thinking was that for someone who is homeless, often their experience doesn’t end after one day or just one event, so they are forced to go on day after day.”
“I’m coping okay at the moment but already in six months I’ve gone through all the stages of physical struggles and mental struggles too.
“Even though it’s a core reason I chose this challenge, it has still surprised me just how hard it is to keep going day after day, week after week.”
“The most difficult aspect has been remotivating myself after a big event, – alongside my every day 5k runs in my lunch hour or after work. I’ve also signed up for big events like a Tough Mudder, London Landmarks Half Marathon, and more to clock up my kilometre’s.
“After my first half marathon, like most people, I switched off, celebrated and started to relax post-race. The next morning my kilometres reset for the day, and it was tough to get myself going again to take on the next run, the next 5k, or the next event.”
“One of the biggest positives has definitely been the generosity and support from people. From family and friends to colleagues, everyone has been amazing - sending messages of encouragement, sharing ideas for different runs, and suggesting ways to raise money for Social Bite. It’s been really lovely to have that support!”
“It absolutely does!
“Every time I think I’m having a tough week, or a tough day, I always think of the people that have far less than me and are living through some difficult times. I know the work that Social Bite does truly makes a difference and helps break the cycle of homelessness.
“Knowing that I am helping to support that with every penny I raise and every run I take on helps me push on and smash through that next kilometre.”
Ross, our Senior Events Executive, said, “Jamie’s 2,026km challenge is really an extraordinary undertaking, and we couldn’t be more thankful for his support. Working closely with Jamie throughout the year I’m always amazed and inspired by his ability to keep going through each run and each kilometre, even with difficult weather, work, and tiredness – all whilst raising funds for our cause. He is truly inspiring!”
Jamie has raised over £900 already through his 2,026km challenge and is aiming to keep raising more between now and December 31st. If you want to follow Jamie’s journey on Instagram you can find him at @jamieathertonrun.
We love seeing the incredible and inventive ways that our supporters go above and beyond to raise funds and make a real difference in breaking the cycle of homelessness. If you’re feeling inspired, find out some of the ways you can get involved on our website: www.social-bite.co.uk/get-involved