Jack Dawson, from Carrickfergus, is undertaking this physically demanding feat to raise awareness of the shocking prevalence of domestic abuse in Northern Ireland. The added weight is symbolic: on average, the PSNI responds to a domestic abuse call every 16 minutes.
“That’s someone — every 16 minutes — reaching out for help to escape an abusive relationship,” Jack says.
Jack is also using his marathon challenge to raise funds for Women’s Aid, a vital organisation that supports women, children, and young people affected by domestic abuse across Northern Ireland.
Ahead of taking on this heavy challenge in May, Jack said:
“I’m expecting to complete the marathon in around seven hours, walking it with the 16kg weight. In that time alone, the PSNI will receive, on average, 28 domestic abuse calls. That’s 28 people reaching out for help while I’m doing this challenge.
I think it’s so important that awareness is brought to this issue — and that we work to bring about real change. We all know the awful statistics surrounding domestic abuse, especially towards women and children, but we can’t let it be something that’s talked about for a moment and then drops off the radar until another incident occurs.
I really hope this challenge not only sparks an important conversation, but also raises funds to support the work of Women’s Aid to help end domestic abuse in our society.
I’ve had my own experiences and have built a wonderful working and personal relationship with Women’s Aid over the last five years — through my play Holding Ground, the Social Action Youth Project, and their Responsible Reporting initiative.”
In 2023/24 alone, Women’s Aid services across Northern Ireland supported over 7,600 women in the community who had been affected by domestic abuse. Additionally, more than 500 women and 291 children accessed emergency refuge accommodation across the province.
Jack added:
“Any donation you can make will be greatly appreciated and will help Women’s Aid continue their vital work supporting women, children, and young people affected by domestic abuse across Northern Ireland.”
You can support Jack’s 16kg Marathon Challenge by visiting: justgiving.com/page/onecallevery16mins