Autism affects more than 1 in 100 people in the UK. Young people with autism often end up being bullied and excluded by their peers, and can find it extremely difficult to hold down a job as they grow up, or even to obtain one. Only 16% of autistic adults in the UK are in full-time paid employment, and only 32% are in some kind of paid work. At least one in three autistic adults are said to be experiencing severe mental health difficulties due to a lack of support. 

Step by Step School for Autistic Children is a small independent day school that aims to help its pupils develop the skills, understanding and confidence to reach their full potential and, as far as possible, to lead full and independent lives within the community, rather than an institution.

This school is particularly special to the Grubb family, as the main building - Jo's Barn - is named after Dad's sister Jo, who tragically died in a car accident just 17 days before her 21st birthday. I will therefore do my very best to make it round my first marathon in one piece, in memory of an Auntie I never got the chance to meet, and running for a fantastic cause. Any donation - however small - will be hugely appreciated! Thank you very much to all in advance - wish me luck!