Become a Guide Runner

Make a difference through running

Guide running is a rewarding way to make running more inclusive, supporting blind and partially sighted runners to enjoy the sport safely, confidently, and on their own terms.

Whether you’re new to guiding or already supporting someone informally, becoming a guide runner is a great way to develop your skills and help others take part.

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Watch our England Athletics Guide Running video on YouTube.

Why become a guide runner?

As a guide runner, you’ll do more than just run, you’ll help create opportunities and build confidence. 

By becoming a guide runner, you can: 

• Support someone to run safely and confidently  

• Develop communication and guiding skills  

• Build rewarding partnerships  

• Help create a more inclusive running community 

No previous experience is needed, just a willingness to learn and support others. 

How to get started

Step 1: Attend a workshop

Join a Sight Loss Awareness and Guide Running workshop to learn the basics, build confidence, and gain practical experience.

Step 2: Complete your licence

Becoming licensed means, you are fully prepared and recognised to guide safely. 

To become licensed, you’ll need to: 

• Attend a Sight Loss Awareness and Guide Running workshop 

• Complete a DBS (criminal record) check 

• Complete safeguarding and first aid training - details of how to book these courses are provided as part of the Sight Loss Awareness and Guide Running workshop booking. 

As a licensed guide runner, you: 

• Are covered by England Athletics insurance when guiding 

• Meet recognised safety and quality standards 

• Can be listed on the Find a Guide database and matched with runners 

Step 3: Get involved

Once licenced, you can join the Find a Guide database and connect with blind and partially sighted runners in your area. 

About the workshop 

The Sight Loss Awareness and Guide Running workshop is a practical and supportive introduction to guide running. 

It covers: 

• Understanding different types of visual impairment 

• Communication techniques and guiding skills 

• Safety considerations and best practice 

• Practical experience of guiding and being guided 

The workshop is suitable for: 

• New guide runners 

• Those supporting friends or family 

• Running clubs looking to become more inclusive 

Developed in collaboration with British Blind Sport, the workshop reflects best practice in inclusive running.