Participants with disabilities guidance
1. What’s the best way to get to the Start Line?
2. I would like some support on Event Day
If you are visually impaired or your disability or medical condition means you need a Support Runner, you can apply for a free place for them.
Please email us outlining your request and the reasons for it. If you would like a Support Runner, The Richard Whitehead Supported Runners Project can pair you with someone for Event Day. You can register your interest on their site. England Athletics also has great information about finding a support runner on their site.
In exceptional circumstances, we can find someone for you, but please email us your request as soon as possible and at least three months before Marathon Day.
3. I need my day chair or prosthesis at the Finish
If you have something you’d like to leave at the Start Line along with your kitbag, such as your day chair or prosthesis, please email your request and the reasons for it.
4. I need my parent or carer at the Finish
We have a repatriation tent at the Finish where they can meet you. Please email your request and the reasons for it so we can arrange the necessary passes.
5. What’s the elevation of the course?
The total elevation gain is 447ft.
There are some fairly steep climbs. It is advised to stay to the left hand side of the course at these points.
There are no cobblestones.
6. Is there support for me on the route and at the Finish?
At Mile 15, there is a disability hub where you can rest or get assistance.
In the Finish Area, we have a Sensory Calm space for anyone who wants to take a moment away from the crowds or the noise.
7. Where are the accessible toilets and changing areas?
There are RevoLOOtion Mobiloos at the Start. These have a hoist and adjustable changing table. Accessible toilets can be found at 14 points along the route.
If you have a bladder or bowel condition, a Just Can’t Wait Toilet Card explains you have a medical condition and need urgent access to a toilet. If you have the card handy, you can show it to whoever is at the front of the queue.
The card is issued by the Bladder and Bowel Community and can be downloaded for free. From that page, you can also purchase a plastic card.
There are also bladder pads available at the Information Points and Drinks Stations, as well as tampons and pads in case your period falls on Event Day.
8. Where are the Drinks Stations?
There’s BUXTON® Natural Mineral Water at Mile 2, 4, 8, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 24 and in the Finish Area. Please remember to drain the bottle before finishing with it. There is HIGH5 Zero at Mile 7, 15, 21 and 23 and High5 Energy Gel Aqua at Mile 15 and 21.
The Drinks Stations are accessible for wheelchair users and volunteers will hand you your drink, and they can also open the bottle for you.
If you’re bringing a bottle belt or hydration pack, you’ll also find water refill points in the Start Area and at Mile 7, 15, 21 and 23.
9. I would like a bib which explains ‘I need space’ or ‘I’m a deaf runner’
These can be collected at the Information Point at the Start Area.
10. I use a reflective safety flag for my day chair, is this allowed?
If you want extra visibility on Event Day, you are allowed to add a reflective safety flag to your day chair.