I've raised £4000 to help fund a short break to the seaside, for children with autism and high support needs, who live in the inner city
Organised by Ann O'Toole
Story
We are raising funds to take a group of children with autism, including those with higher support needs, and a parent, who live in the inner city, on a short seaside break.
Financial hardship and the children's need for specialist support make it difficult for their families to arrange a 'fish & chips on the pier' break away from their everyday routines.
A short break allows families and their children to spend time together in a new environment, exploring the rich culture of the British seaside, often for the first time.
Outside In Pathways provides expert support for the families, organising accommodation, events and activities. We have linked up with St. Felix's school to host the break in their beautiful, secluded and secure grounds, on the Suffolk coast.
A pilot last year showed the difference such a break can make, notably to the children's social skills and mood, whilst the parents developed a vital support network that has been sustained ever since.
"He only uses two-word sentences, but when we were there he was saying 'I'm going upstairs' or 'I'm going outside to play', 'we're going on an adventure, a jungle-walk!' The environment makes a big difference... Now he is back at school and telling them all about it." (Mother of child taking part in the pilot)
You can read more about the success of the pilot in a summary evaluation here.
