Fundraising
Henshaws launches Greater Manchester Vision Appeal to support people living with sight loss
Posted May 2026
Rain, sunshine and thousands of supporters lining the streets. The Great Manchester Run 2026 delivered classic Manchester weather and an unforgettable day for Team Henshaws.
This year was a true example of community spirit, with Henshaws staff, corporate supporters, ambassadors, family members and friends coming together to make a difference.
Together, they took on the challenge and raised an incredible £14,000 to support people living with sight loss and disabilities.*
Every mile, donation and message of support helped make the day something special.
Marc and Friends Take on the Challenge
Henshaws Ambassador Marc, alongside friends and colleagues from the Insurance Institute of Manchester (IIM), laced up their trainers and joined Team Henshaws for the challenge.
Following an incredible year as President of the IIM, Marc encouraged others to step out of their comfort zone and get involved for a cause close to his heart.
Reflecting on race day, Marc said:
It was a brilliant day. The weather was fabulous for running. I managed to get to the end with the help of my wonderful colleagues, John and Jon. It was definitely a challenge. My legs are still aching but it was well worth it. We raised some good money and of course, the cold pint at the end was welcomed! I’m really thankful that I was encouraged into going out of my comfort zone for such a great cause.
A huge thank you also goes to the Zurich Foundation, who matched Marc’s fundraising total. Their support helped every donation go even further and increase its impact.
Zally Runs Together for Henshaws
As part of our growing partnership with Zally, six members of their team signed up for the Great Manchester Run 2026 and threw themselves into training and fundraising.
What started as a race entry quickly became a team effort. The group met up after work for 5km runs along the canal, shared progress through a Strava group and kept each other motivated every step of the way.
Alongside the training, the team rallied more than 50 supporters and raised an incredible £1,620 through the Zally Foundation for Henshaws.
Reflecting on their experience, the team said:
Together we started a Zally run club, taking on 5km runs along the canal after work, set up a team Strava group, shared post-run selfies, and kept each other going through a group chat that never went quiet. We even held running 101 lunch and learns hosted by Olivia Newall, who has run three marathons, it was full of advice and tips, and it was the perfect way to motivate the runners and inspire the wider team to get involved too. The team came together to plan fundraising, rallied 50 supporters, and raised £1,620 through the Zally foundation in support of Henshaws. Every mile was filled with enthusiasm, dedication, warmth and grit! It was a couple of months of hard work, fundraising, and memories none of us will forget.
We’re so grateful for the enthusiasm and commitment they brought to Team Henshaws.
Moving Mountains with Jen
For Jen, the Great Manchester Run 2026 was about resilience and progress. After a stroke and a long recovery journey, the event became a celebration of everything she had overcome. Throughout her recovery, Jen received support from Henshaws, helping her navigate sight loss services, appointments and adapting to life after her stroke. By taking on the Great Manchester Run, Jen not only achieved a personal goal but also raised vital funds to help Henshaws continue supporting others facing life-changing challenges.
She reflected after crossing the finish line:
This run wasn’t my hard thing. This wasn’t my mountain. I’d already climbed the mountain. This run was the celebration of that.
🎥 Watch Jen’s story, Moving Mountains and Celebrating Achievements
Jen has created a video to share her journey, and why running this 10k meant so much.
Thank You, Team Henshaws
To every runner, donor and supporter who helped make this year’s Great Manchester Run a success, thank you.
Whether you ran, donated, shared a fundraising page or cheered from the sidelines, you helped create opportunities for people living with sight loss and disabilities.
Join Team Henshaws in 2027
Feeling inspired?
Team Henshaws will be back at the Great Manchester Run on 23rd May 2027, and we’d love you to join us.
Whether you’re aiming for your first 10K, taking on the Half Marathon or looking for a new challenge, we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.
Register your interest today: Henshaws Great Manchester Run (10K and Half Marathon) registration form.
*Fundraising total correct at time of writing and subject to final match funding being confirmed.
