For Louise Ridgeway, running the London Marathon is about more than completing 26.2 miles. It’s about giving back to the organisation that helped shape her journey and supporting the life-changing opportunities youth work creates for young people.
At 23, Louise recently completed her apprenticeship at Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre, UK Youth’s outdoor learning centre in the New Forest. Now she’s taking on one of the world’s most famous races to raise funds so more young people can experience the confidence, skills and memories that youth work can provide.
Her story is a powerful reminder of why youth work matters—and how each of us can play a role in supporting it.
Discovering a Passion for Youth Work
During her apprenticeship at Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre, Louise Ridgeway spent her days helping young people experience the outdoors through activities like kayaking, bushcraft and high ropes. In her first few months, she focused on training and shadowing experienced instructors, often spending entire days on the lake or in the ropes area learning how to run sessions. Once she completed her sign-offs, she began leading activities herself and working directly with visiting groups. Having already discovered a love for working with children through summer camps during university, Louise was eager to combine that passion with her love of the outdoors.
“I loved being outdoors and I wanted to share that passion with people who might not always get the opportunity to try the activities Avon Tyrrell offers.”
For Louise, Avon Tyrrell quickly became more than just a workplace. She saw first-hand how experiences outside the classroom could help young people grow in confidence and create lasting memories. One moment that stayed with her was leading a group of nervous seven-year-olds on the high ropes. By singing songs together and encouraging one another, the whole group eventually completed the challenge.
“The teacher thanked me afterwards and said he didn’t think any of them would go up. That’s when I realised the impact we can have on young people.”
Louise also worked with groups of young carers during her time at the centre, reinforcing just how important spaces like Avon Tyrrell can be for young people who need time away from everyday pressures.
Running for a Cause That Matters
Louise chose to run the marathon for UK Youth because she has seen the power of youth work first-hand. During her time at Avon Tyrrell, she witnessed how outdoor learning and supportive environments can help young people build confidence, overcome challenges and create lasting memories. Now, she’s taking on the marathon to give something back, with a goal of raising £2,250 through a mix of training, bake sales and quiz nights with friends and family.
“I’ve seen the difference UK Youth makes to young people, and the work they do is so valuable. Being part of the charity was an honour and I wanted to give something back.”
Be Inspired to Fundraise
Louise’s marathon journey shows how one person’s challenge can create opportunities for many young people.
Whether it’s running a marathon, hosting a quiz night, organising a bake sale or taking on a personal challenge, fundraising helps ensure more young people can access life-changing youth work experiences.
“Young people are our future,” Louise says. “It’s so important that we invest time and resources into them.”
If Louise’s story has inspired you, you can support young people by starting your own fundraising challenge for UK Youth.
Visit the UK Youth fundraising page to find out how you can get involved and help create more opportunities for young people across the UK.
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