My Story

This April, I will be running the London Marathon in aid of The Simon Trust. Having never run a full Marathon before this will be quite a challenge (as are the dark and rainy evening training runs!)

I am running for The Simon Trust because it is a charity very close to home. In the UK there are many fantastic privisions for children with autism, however once they pass school age, the places where they can live with the support and space they need reduces and are often far away from their families.

The Simon Trust was founded just over 10 years ago, when my parents were facing this exact reality for my brother. He has severe autism and needs 24/7 care, as well as a lot of space to run around. In 2015, The Simon Trust began working with Surrey County Council to build ten homes on a six-acre site in Alfold, near Cranleigh, for severely autistic young people whose families are in Surrey. Surrey County Council bought the site and since then The Simon Trust has worked to provide the 'essential extras' that make a difference to the residents' quality of life. The site, Linden Farm, is the first of its kind in Surrey.

From The Simon Trust's fundraising, some of the most significant purchases so far include an art sensory room, a 400 metre cycle track, bikes, arts & crafts, and an allotment. A day is a long time to keep someone with autism occupied, and these facilities provide activities to do everyday. Linden Farm has become a very special place for its residents.

Any donations would be greatly appreciated and will both support this charity and help me get round those 26.2 miles! Thank you!