Runners can choose between the Half Marathon or 10K, with Hearts Together offering subsidised charity entry rates as a thank you to those running in support of the charity. Charity places are available at £25 for the Half Marathon (full price £40) and £20 for the 10K (full price £30).

The launch comes as Hearts Together approaches a major milestone — 25 years of supporting families who need affordable accommodation, emotional support and practical help during some of the most challenging times of their lives.

“At Hearts Together we’re delighted to offer our supporters the chance to be part of Run Plymouth 2026 and raise vital funds for families who need compassionate, affordable accommodation while a loved one receives treatment. We’re incredibly grateful to every runner who chooses to run to support our Hearts Together community.” – Angela Gatcum, CEO, Hearts Together.

Funds raised through Run Plymouth will help Hearts Together continue to provide its hospital hotel, just minutes from Derriford Hospital, ensuring families can stay close to loved ones without the added stress of long journeys or unaffordable accommodation. The charity supported 1,022 guests in 2024, providing a total of 8,081 nights of accommodation. Some families stay for weeks or even months at a time, with the longest individual stay in a single visit lasting 78 nights. On average, guests travel 109 miles to reach Hearts Together — a journey of more than two hours — with some travelling over 11 hours in 2024.

One family helped by Hearts Together is Simon and his wife, who were advised to stay close to Derriford Hospital while their daughter Olivia lay critically ill in a coma. Hearts Together provided them with a safe, welcoming place to stay nearby, allowing them to remain close without the added worry of cost or travel.

Stories like Simon and Olivia’s are made possible by donations and fundraising efforts — including events like Run Plymouth.

This year, Team Hearts Together runners will be supported by Ricky Callow of RC Coaching, who will also be running on the day. Ricky has shared a special Half Marathon Training Programme and welcomes runners to join his weekly running club, offering extra motivation, structure and community.

“We’re really looking forward to supporting runners from Team Hearts Together at Run Plymouth on Sunday 17 May 2026. I’m excited to help our charity runners prepare with training support and community motivation. Whether you’re tackling the Half Marathon or the 10K, knowing your run will make a difference makes every step count.” - Ricky Callow of RC Coaching.

 

In addition to discounted entry, runners for Hearts Together receive fundraising support, ideas and encouragement from the charity team, helping them feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Get involved

Charity places are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Book your place today!

• Half Marathon charity place:
  https://www.heartstogether.org.uk/shop/run-plymouth-half-marathon
• 10K charity place:
  https://www.heartstogether.org.uk/shop/run-plymouth-10k

By running for Hearts Together at Run Plymouth 2026, participants will be helping ensure families can stay close when it matters most - turning miles on the road into comfort, care and hope.