CIOF Cymru Responds to 25% Price Increase to Charities

CIOF Cymru has expressed concern over the recent decision by Run 4 Wales to increase the cost of charity places for the Oysho Cardiff Half Marathon for the second year in a row, raising the cost to £125 per space; an increase of £25 on 2025 charity spaces, and more than double the cost of entries to the general public.

The decision will significantly reduce the amount local charities will be able to raise through the event at a time when demand for their services is through the roof.

Owen Thomas, Chair of CIOF Cymru, said: “Many members have already been in touch to express their concerns. This substantial price increase will mean some participating charities will have no choice but to pass these additional costs on to their supporters, asking them to pledge to raise more funds in a challenging fundraising environment.

“While we recognise the importance of sustainable event management and the value that mass participation events like this can bring to the charity sector, this 25% price increase also risks excluding many smaller charities in Wales from taking part altogether.”

Wales is home to over 8,000 registered charities, and more than 80% of these are small organisations with annual incomes under £100,000. These charities often operate with limited budgets and rely heavily on events like the Oysho Cardiff Half Marathon to raise vital funds. This increase in cost could mean that only charities with deeper financial resources will be able to afford meaningful participation, undermining the inclusive spirit of the event and reducing the diversity of causes represented in our capital city.

Owen Thomas continued: “We urge Run 4 Wales to consider the impact of this pricing strategy on the broader charity sector in Wales and to engage with stakeholders to explore more equitable models. For example, a tiered pricing structure or subsidised places for smaller charities operating in Wales could help ensure that the event remains accessible to all, regardless of size or financial capacity. We want this event to continue to reflect the breadth and depth of the work being done by good causes benefitting communities across Wales.

“CIOF Cymru stands ready to support dialogue and collaboration to ensure that any event pertaining to benefit the charitable community - and using this as a selling point does so by being inclusive to all charities based in Wales.”