London Housing Foundation is proud to support The Running Charity (TRC). They were set up to harness the power of running to support young people who are experiencing homelessness or manage complex needs. We asked Claude Umuhire, one of their coaches, to tell us what a typical day might be like.
It’s hard to believe I’ve been delivering sessions at The Running Charity for ten years. A whole decade. It honestly doesn’t feel that long, and I think that’s because every single day in this role brings something new. The job is never repetitive—each session, each young person, each challenge keeps me on my toes. It also helps that so much of my time is spent being active; there’s something about movement that keeps the mind fresh and focused. That, combined with the mission TRC has entrusted to me, means my motivation never runs dry.
My journey with The Running Charity didn’t begin as a coach—it began as a participant. I was first introduced to TRC at a homeless day centre. At that point in my life, things were incredibly tough. But those sessions gave me something I hadn’t felt in a long time: I felt human again. For the hour or so that I was out running with TRC, I wasn’t “homeless”—I was someone with dreams, someone with goals. That space to simply be was transformative.
Now, as both a programme manager and coach, I have the privilege of creating that same space for other young people. My day-to-day can be full-on, but it’s always rewarding. Here’s what a typical day might look like:
- Morning Check-ins: I start my day by reaching out to the young people I support. Whether it’s a quick message or a longer call, these check-ins help us stay connected and allow me to see how they’re doing.
- Team Contact: I also check in with the TRC team. We’re a close-knit bunch, and regular communication helps us stay aligned and support each other.
- Session Prep: I spend time confirming and prepping sessions—whether that’s 1:1s, key work, group runs, or advocacy work with young people who need a voice in difficult systems.
- Session Delivery: I’m usually out delivering 2–4 sessions a day. These could be physical runs, well-being conversations, or group workshops.
- Admin Time: Behind the scenes, there’s always work to be done—registers, emails, reporting on sessions—it’s all essential in keeping things running smoothly and showing the impact of what we do.
- Evening Debrief: I usually lead the team debrief at the end of the day. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, support each other, and look ahead to what’s next.
When I think back to where I started and compare it to where I am now, the journey still feels a little surreal. I came to The Running Charity as someone looking for a way to breathe again, and I now help create that same breathing space for others. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of an organisation that not only believes in the power of running to transform lives—but proves it, every single day.
For more information about The Running Charity go to Home — The Running Charity. If you would like to apply for a grant from London Housing Foundation go to About Our Grants – London Housing Foundation