Stewart Campbell
Help Us Turn Pedal Power Into £10k
Fundraising for Autism Initiatives UK
Story
Autism Initiatives was established in 1972, and has since gone on to provide autism specific services across the UK. One such service, Number 6, was set up in 2004 to provide a range of services to adults with Asperger Syndrome or High Functioning Autism living in the Lothians.
As well as providing one-to-one support for a number of issues (such as employment, benefits and housing), Number 6 provides a variety of social groups to allow our service users to learn and practice social skills in a safe, enjoyable environment. People with Asperger Syndrome or High Functioning Autism can have a lot of difficulty communicating socially, often resulting in isolation and depression, and our social groups are often the only time people using Number 6 have the chance to talk to people outwith their own family.
Currently, we have groups that are centred on art, music, relaxation, walking, football, photography, books, films, pool, salsa, badminton, yoga and games. In the past, our Activities Coordinator was responsible for the organisation and preparation for these groups, as well as reminding people where they had to be and when. Unfortunately, we have not received enough funding for this financial year, and can no longer afford to employ an Activities Coordinator, which has already had an effect on the smooth running of social activities at Number 6.
We need to raise £10,000 to employ a part-time Activities Coordinator, who can ensure that our social activities are maintained and developed over the next year.
In an attempt to raise this money our Volunteer Co-ordinator (Stewart Campbell), together with his friend (Kenneth Knowles) are cycling from our office in 6 Melville Crescent Edinburgh to the Autism Initiatives Head Office in Crosby, Liverpool. The event will be taking place on 27th November and a total of 218 miles will be cycled in 35 hours.
Please help us reach our target of £10,000 - any donation will be gratefully received by Number 6 and the people using our service.