Officers to go the Distance for Domestic Abuse Charity in Manchester Marathon

Posted By: KLTVon: April 14, 2026In: News, Talking Health TV, The DEN

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By KLTV Newsdesk –

Huddersfield police pair aim to raise funds for life-changing refuge project

Two dedicated Huddersfield fundraisers are preparing to take on the gruelling Manchester Marathon on 19 April in support of the Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership (PDAP).

PC John Dean and DC Thomas Halton, who both work within the Kirklees Domestic Abuse Team at Huddersfield Police Station, are hoping to raise as much money as possible for the specialist charity, which provides vital support to victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

Supporting survivors across Kirklees

PDAP delivers specialist support, advice, information and safe accommodation to those affected by domestic abuse.

The organisation prides itself on being inclusive, responsive, caring and non-judgemental, and supported more than 1,600 victims over the past year.

Funds raised through the marathon will contribute towards a bespoke refuge development for families fleeing domestic violence.

From couch to marathon

For PC Dean, the challenge once felt far out of reach, having not run for more than a decade before beginning his training.

He said: “The hardest part for me was starting – I bought the clothing, but I really found the thought of putting my running shoes on for the first time very tough!

“It was well known within the office that I had signed up, and it was equally well known that I had not attempted any sort of a run.

“In July, I downloaded the Runna app – they have running programmes which range from expert to complete novice.

“I started the novice couch to 5k, and after really committing to my training and pushing myself so far beyond my comfort zone, both physically and mentally, now I am two weeks away from completing my marathon training, having just run 33km (20 miles) this weekend.

“Tom is the opposite – he is a former professional footballer, having played for Halifax, Huddersfield and York City, so is already very fit and is often found running around his home village!

“He is aiming for a sub-3-hour marathon, which will be very impressive.

“Both of us are going to give it our absolute all. We have worked within the domestic abuse arena for over 10 years between us, and throughout that time, we have seen first-hand the incredible work that PDAP does for victims of domestic abuse.

“Any money raised is going towards a bespoke build of a domestic refuge for families fleeing domestic violence, and we can’t think of a more worthy cause to support.

“Any donations at all would mean the world to us and the charity, and hugely appreciated”

A vision for safe, stable homes

Naomi Morrison, chief executive of PDAP, said the project would provide long-term support for survivors rebuilding their lives.

She said: “This project will offer more than temporary accommodation; it will deliver six stable, welcoming homes where survivors can begin to recover from trauma and regain their independence.

“For many people leaving abusive situations, the impact of that trauma can make accessing traditional accommodation difficult.

“These new homes are designed to offer a more flexible and accessible option, particularly for those with complex needs who need a calmer, more supportive environment in which to heal.

“We are so grateful for John and Tom’s support – their efforts highlight the importance of community support in creating life-changing opportunities for survivors.

“The vision for the project is simple but powerful: to create homes, not just housing.

“Each property will provide a safe place where someone can begin to rebuild their life, regain confidence, and move forward after the trauma of abuse.

“With the support of efforts like the marathon challenge, these six properties will become spaces of hope, places where survivors in Kirklees can feel secure, rebuild their futures, and truly feel at home again.”