I started fundraising back in 2021 to spread awareness and understanding of ASD, as my boy Arthur was diagnosed with Autism aged 4, I didn’t understand it as I hadn’t been taught as it seems our society was not built for difference, which is why I started to try and share my understanding, so I turned my hobby into something that could help others, I covered my Enduro Moto cross bike in Autism Awareness Graphics and entered myself into my first ever championship and sponsored myself to compete and complete each race, usually 2.5 -3.0 hrs long, with a lap consisting of 4.5 -5 miles long, something I wasn’t used to and far from the quiet nimble down a green lane, but the thought I could help like we had been helped by support groups and spread awareness made me want to give back. This year I’ve joined up to Mercian Dirt Riders championship, which will be 6 races over the year, I’m also going to push my self a lil bit more this year as the charity I’ll be doing it for needs us more than ever (read up below) and enter South readings enduro races through the year consisting of 4 races.

Our journey started when Arthur had not been able to settle into mainstream school resulting in 8 suspensions, after which we decided to do outside provisions and attend support groups, without this Arthur would of had zero learning or any social involvement with kids his age! We thankfully are nearly at the end of our journey with a SEN school waiting to take Arthur on after Easter, but that’s just our journey there are thousands In our position across the whole of Oxfordshire who are only just starting there’s, it can be the most loneliness thing to experience untill you find the groups and support from others who understand, but we ALL should, stats say 1 in a 100 people have ASD but it’s more like 1 in 40 from undiagnosed children they to need the support which is why this next bit is so important,

it has come of recent that OCC (Oxfordshire county council) have stopped vital funds to AFSO, who do an amazing job at supporting our children with SEND by providing provisions and youth clubs for kids to attend, that are not normally as easily accepted into our society! They make a safe place which is why I cannot sit back this year and do nothing when they commit so much to our kids out off generosity,

I’m not asking for a lot as I know times are hard for most, a pound will make a significant difference, so if that’s all you have to spare then please donate, it will help so many children and families in a position we found our selves in

🌈🌻♾️💙

A message from AFSO

Autism Family Support Oxfordshire (AFSO) is a small local charity reaching over 4,000 families - we are a small team but we make a BIG impact on the lives of autistic children and young adults and their families.

We provide advice and support to parents/carers who have an autistic child. We are highly regarded and known as "the autism people". Families come to us for advice and guidance on their daily challenges and to feel understood. listened to, empowered and connected.

Our work often stops families from breaking down and breaking up.

But we urgently need donations to keep delivering this vital "lifeline" to young people and families. Following recent funding cuts we need to raise funds to maintain our three youth groups and family support services.

Please donate - your support will changes young autistic people's lives!

Thank you.