A big hello from Paul and Jo!

Jump Space, our chosen charity, has a special place in our hearts. Our wonderful son Ed has an Autistic Spectrum Condition and, for the last five years, has benefited immensely from the charity's specialist facilities and dedicated staff. Paul became Jump Space's patron in 2010, Jo helps them out with fundraising, and we both do all that we can to raise awareness about this magical place.

In a nutshell, Jump Space is a unique, Stockport-based recreation centre that provides Trampolining, Rebound Therapy and Active/Sensory play to children and young people with disabilities and impairments. The charity caters for groups and individuals across the whole spectrum of disability, from autism to ADHD, from cerebral palsy to cystic fibrosis, from visual to aural impairments, and from Down’s Syndrome to Asperger’s Syndrome. Its classes and sessions are run by qualified, CRB-checked coaches and take place during the day, in the evenings and at weekends. Jump Space’s specially-adapted centre comprises four professional-standard trampolines, including one for Rebound Therapy (an intensive 1:1 technique for people with moderate-to-severe disabilities which comprises the therapeutic use of trampolines to encourage movement, exercise and recreation). It also houses a fully-accessible play/recreation area, an adapted swing, a jumbo slide, a ball pool and a sensory room. Jump Space’s HQ provides a safe, fun, understanding and non-judgmental environment for disabled children and young people, many of whom, due to their impairments, are prevented from accessing other forms of sport and activity. Jump Space also welcomes siblings and parents/carers, and acts as a welcome social hub for hundreds of families across the region, many of whom lead very challenging lives and are prone to social isolation.

We would be thrilled, therefore, if you would consider sponsoring us for the Great Manchester 10k. We'll both be power-walking our way through the course (we completed it in about 75 minutes a couple of years ago, so we don't mess about!) and it will be Paul's first challenge with his brand new bionic right knee!

As you're probably aware, donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Once you do so, they'll send your money directly to Jump Space; it's the most efficient way to donate, saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

With love and best wishes,

Paul and Jo xxx