Key Points
- Bromley and Croydon Women’s Aid (BCWA), a south London domestic abuse charity, is urging runners and local businesses to sign up for races to raise money.
- The charity is promoting the “Miles for Smiles” running campaign, which offers discounted places for individuals and a corporate team package.
- The events are organised in partnership with the RunThrough Series to raise funds for BCWA’s vital services supporting people experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse in Bromley and Croydon.
- A spokesperson for Miles for Smiles stated: “Whether you’re chasing a personal best, starting your first 5K, or bringing colleagues together for a shared goal, Miles for Smiles transforms every mile into practical help for people experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse across Bromley and Croydon.”
Bromley (South London News) February 14, 2026 – Bromley and Croydon Women’s Aid (BCWA), a dedicated domestic abuse charity serving south London communities, has launched an urgent call for runners and local businesses to join its “Miles for Smiles” running campaign. Partnering with the popular RunThrough Series, the initiative offers discounted entry spots for individuals and tailored corporate team packages aimed at generating crucial funds for the charity’s frontline services. This move comes as BCWA seeks to bolster support for victims and those at risk of domestic abuse in Bromley and Croydon amid rising demands on its resources.
- Key Points
- What is the Miles for Smiles Campaign?
- Who is Bromley and Croydon Women’s Aid?
- Why is BCWA Promoting Running Events Now?
- How Can Individuals Sign Up for Miles for Smiles?
- What Benefits Do Corporate Teams Gain?
- What Impact Will Funds Have on Domestic Abuse Services?
- Who is RunThrough Series and Their Role?
- How Does This Fit into Broader Charity Running Trends?
What is the Miles for Smiles Campaign?
The “Miles for Smiles” campaign represents BCWA’s innovative approach to fundraising through community participation in running events. As detailed in the initial announcement, the campaign provides accessible entry points for participants of all levels, from seasoned athletes to novices.
A spokesperson for Miles for Smiles emphasised the campaign’s transformative potential, saying:
“Whether you’re chasing a personal best, starting your first 5K, or bringing colleagues together for a shared goal, Miles for Smiles transforms every mile into practical help for people experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse across Bromley and Croydon.”
This statement underscores the charity’s vision of turning physical activity into tangible aid. The partnership with RunThrough Series ensures professionally organised races, enhancing appeal for both personal and corporate involvement.
BCWA, a registered charity and social housing provider, focuses on ending all forms of domestic abuse while preserving the independence, confidence, and self-esteem of those it supports. Recent fundraising pages on JustGiving show strong community backing, with campaigns raising thousands, such as £5,710 from 93 supporters in one instance.
Who is Bromley and Croydon Women’s Aid?
Bromley and Croydon Women’s Aid (BCWA) operates as a vital lifeline for domestic abuse survivors in south London. The charity defines domestic abuse as situations where individuals are controlled, bullied, or threatened by partners or family members seeking control. Its services include outreach, housing support, and wellbeing programmes, as evidenced by past initiatives like the “Surviving Well” pilot project.
In a report on partnership efforts, the Surviving Well project, running from July 2019 to July 2020, provided specialist outreach to female survivors in Bromley facing mental and physical wellbeing challenges stemming from abuse.
Funded by local strategic commissioners, it supported at least 60 women through individual and group sessions, confirming the benefits of third-sector collaboration. BTSE, an associate member, highlighted how 40% of Bromley Well’s mental health clients disclosed domestic abuse histories, prompting this targeted response.
Additionally, BCWA’s “Never Too Late” pilot targets survivors over 50 in Bromley, aiming to reduce violence risks, stress, isolation, and boost self-confidence. Recent news from the charity’s site notes investments like SASC funding for purchasing homes to secure safer futures for survivors. These efforts illustrate BCWA’s comprehensive role in the region.
Why is BCWA Promoting Running Events Now?
The timing of the Miles for Smiles launch aligns with ongoing needs in Bromley and Croydon, where domestic abuse services face heightened pressure.
While specific triggers for this campaign are not detailed in the primary report, BCWA’s fundraising history reveals consistent community reliance. JustGiving data shows multiple active pages, including one surpassing its £5,413 target with 109 supporters and another hitting 541% of its goal.
As reported in Yahoo UK News on February 14, 2026, the charity is leveraging the popularity of running to amplify funds, especially with RunThrough’s established events.
This follows patterns seen in other local charity runs, such as the Bromley 10K at Norman Park Athletics Track, which offers bespoke medals and team awards, though not directly linked. BCWA’s strategy taps into corporate social responsibility, inviting firms to unite teams for a shared cause.
The spokesperson’s quote reinforces urgency: every participant contributes directly to “practical help” for at-risk individuals, making now an opportune moment for collective action.
How Can Individuals Sign Up for Miles for Smiles?
Individuals keen to support BCWA can secure discounted places through the Miles for Smiles campaign via RunThrough Series events. The initiative caters to beginners with 5K options and veterans pursuing personal bests, ensuring inclusivity.
To join, participants should visit BCWA’s website or RunThrough’s registration portals, where corporate packages are also available. Fundraising pledges similar to those on JustGiving—ranging from £1,161 to over £5,000—demonstrate feasible targets. The spokesperson encourages all levels:
“Whether you’re chasing a personal best, starting your first 5K,”
highlighting ease of entry.
Local events like the Bromley 10K on January 26, 2025, at Norman Park (BR2 9EJ) provide a model, starting at 10am with trophies for top finishers. Runners are urged to sign up promptly to lock in discounts and maximise impact.
What Benefits Do Corporate Teams Gain?
Local businesses are a key focus, with Miles for Smiles offering dedicated corporate team packages to foster team-building while fundraising. This aligns with BCWA’s call for firms to
Companies can enhance CSR profiles, boost employee morale, and directly aid domestic abuse prevention. The spokesperson noted how such participation “transforms every mile into practical help,” appealing to ethical business leaders. Past collaborations, like Surviving Well’s joint bid with Bromley Well, show successful multi-stakeholder models.
Teams might enter events like RunThrough races, mirroring the Bromley 10K’s team awards. Businesses in Bromley and Croydon are particularly encouraged, given BCWA’s local focus.
What Impact Will Funds Have on Domestic Abuse Services?
Funds raised via Miles for Smiles will sustain BCWA’s “vital services,” including refuge provision, counselling, and housing. With domestic abuse affecting independence and self-esteem, every pound supports recovery.
Historical projects like Surviving Well improved wellbeing for 60+ women, validating such investments. Never Too Late addressed older survivors’ isolation. SASC’s recent home purchases exemplify long-term safety measures.
The campaign’s ethos—miles to smiles—promises direct benefits for Bromley and Croydon residents at risk.
Who is RunThrough Series and Their Role?
RunThrough Series organises the races, partnering with BCWA to host Miles for Smiles events. Known for accessible, scenic runs, they provide the infrastructure for discounted spots and teams.
While specifics on upcoming races are pending, their involvement ensures quality, as seen in local events like Bromley 10K by similar organisers. This collaboration amplifies reach, drawing runners borough-wide.
How Does This Fit into Broader Charity Running Trends?
Running for charity thrives in south London, with events like Royal Parks Half or Brighton Marathon charity places. Though unrelated, Miles for Smiles joins initiatives like United Through Sport’s festive run raising £2,745.
BCWA’s effort stands out for domestic abuse focus, complementing local supports like Community Links Bromley’s resources. It builds on proven models, ensuring sustained impact.
