Children aged three to 11 from Moredon Primary School ran a mile with their classmates, either completing the full distance or taking part in relay teams.
The event marked the school becoming one of the first HOPE Schools through Society Without Abuse, after completing the charity’s HOPE Award education programme earlier this year.
As part of the programme, pupils have received age appropriate lessons focused on what makes a good friendship, helping them build healthy relationships as they grow older.
School staff have also completed specialist training in domestic abuse awareness, with the school now acting as a familiar place of support for families who may be experiencing abuse or are at risk.
The Run for Hope initiative was designed to help schools celebrate achieving the award while reinforcing the importance of challenging domestic abuse within the school community.
Pupils also raised money for Society Without Abuse by taking part in the run.
Headteacher Claire Leach said the school was pleased to be involved.
“As a staff, we found the training invaluable in helping us support our children and families,” she said.
“The programme aligns closely with our school values, and the Run for Hope gave us a meaningful opportunity to consider how we can give back to worthy causes within our community.”
Emma Maclennan, Children and Families Manager for Society Without Abuse, praised the pupils and staff. “The pupils at Moredon did so well in their Run for Hope and it was lovely to see them running in their HOPE colours too of green and orange,” she said.
“They also raised money for SWA by taking part and so they’re actively helping other children in Swindon to recover from the trauma of domestic abuse.”
She said the event also plays an important educational role. “Run for Hope is a really positive and fun way for schoolchildren to remember what they’ve learnt about being a good friend,” she said.
“Equipping children with an understanding of what makes a good friend from a young age, in an age appropriate way, helps them build strong foundations in making good choices when it comes to relationships when they’re older.”
Highlighting the wider impact, she said: “It’s also so important that those who are experiencing domestic abuse know that there is somewhere familiar for them to come and ask for advice or help.
“Schools are right at the heart of our communities, and so by being able to equip them with the knowledge to help their families will make a huge difference in ending domestic abuse, whether that’s for one family or for everyone.”
Schools can find out more and register for the HOPE Programme for 2026 by contacting Society Without Abuse.
Anyone needing advice for themselves or someone else can contact Swindon’s domestic abuse helpline on 01793 610610. Further information about Society Without Abuse is available via its website at www.societywithoutabuse.org.uk
.
