Kelly’s Half Marathon Challenge

Running for a Cause Close to Home

At HomeCareDirect, we are always proud to celebrate the people who make HCD what it is. Behind every role, every conversation and every piece of support we provide, there are people with stories, passions and causes close to their hearts.

This year, one of those people is Kelly, Regional Care Lead at HCD head office, who is taking on an inspiring fundraising challenge in support of Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

Kelly’s ultimate goal is to run the Manchester Half Marathon on 4th October 2026, raising money for a charity that means a great deal to her personally and professionally.

As a mum to a four-year-old, Kelly knows just how important specialist children’s healthcare is.
Like many parents, she recognises that the Sheffield Children’s Hospital is incredibly important in the healthcare system, providing parents with reassurance and expert support, should this ever be required.

Kelly has seen firsthand how much of a difference compassionate, specialist care can make to children and families during some of the most worrying times in their lives.

Speaking about why she has chosen to fundraise, Kelly said:

“I am doing this for Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Having a four-year-old myself, I know that if I ever needed any medical treatment for him, it would be the first place I would go to. I have also worked with a lot of children in the past who have relied on the hospital, and the work they do is amazing.”

Building Up to the Big Run

Taking on a half-marathon is no small challenge, and Kelly is already putting in the work as she builds towards the big day.

As part of her training and preparation, Kelly just completed the Chesterfield and will follow up the next leg with the Ulverston 10K on 2nd August 2026.
These events will form important milestones in her journey, helping her build confidence, stamina and momentum ahead of the Manchester Half Marathon.

Fundraising challenges like this take commitment, determination and plenty of support along the way. From early training runs to race day nerves, every step Kelly takes will help raise awareness and funds for a hospital that supports so many children and families across the region.

A Cause That Reflects HCD Values

At HCD, our work is built around people. We support individuals and families to access personalised care that helps them live with greater independence, dignity and choice.

Kelly’s fundraising reflects many of the values we see every day across HCD, compassion, commitment and a genuine desire to make a positive difference.
Whether in her role as Regional Care Lead or through her fundraising efforts, Kelly’s dedication to helping others is something we are incredibly proud to recognise.

Sheffield Children’s Hospital plays a vital role in caring for children and young people, and many families will know just how important that support can be.
By taking on this challenge, Kelly is helping to give something back to a service that provides specialist care, comfort and hope when it is needed most.

Supporting Kelly’s Journey

We will be cheering Kelly on as she continues her training journey and works towards the Manchester Half Marathon in October 2026.

Kelly will also be sharing updates on her training and progress as she moves closer to the big run, giving colleagues, friends and supporters the chance to follow her journey and help promote her fundraising along the way.

Everyone at HCD is incredibly proud of Kelly for taking on this challenge and supporting such a meaningful cause.

If you would like to support Kelly and donate to her fundraising page, you can do so here:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/kelly-clayton-89?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=lc_frp_share_transaction_fundraiser_page_donation_received_-_nth_donation

Every donation, share and message of encouragement will help support Kelly as she takes on this challenge for Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

Good luck Kelly, we are all behind you.