I know what you’re thinking? Another bloody donation aye? Well in short, it is yeah!

I am running the Reading Half Marathon on Sunday 3rd April to raise some much-needed funds for RAFT Club, a not-for-profit that I hold very close to my heart.

The RAFT Club was set up by a group of parents in 2008 and not only provides support for families of children with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder, but also provides a safe place for their children to enjoy activities and make friends.

I am extremely lucky to have a son, Frankie who has been blessed with magical superpowers and an obsession with washing machines. In 2017, Frankie was diagnosed with Autism and we have been alternating our Saturdays between attending Raft Club and Curry’s (yes, the white goods place) since the restrictions lifted at the end of lock down one.

Every child who attends RAFT Club really benefits from the care and attention given to them by the specialist Play Workers and watching some of the growth in the children is really special. Not only do the children learn new skills, but it’s a fantastic place for the parents to exchange experiences and advice and to realise they are not going through this alone.

As you can imagine, providing a great service like this comes at a cost, therefore we are doing everything we can to ensure the Club has a future so that more children (and us Parents) can continue to get support and make new friends.

I will be doing everything I can to hit the £1000 mark. This will cover the cost to hire the Venue for the next 6 months.

Any donation will be hugely appreciated and if anyone has a washing machine that needs fixing, Frank is your man.

Thanks for taking the time to read this page,

Jack