14 years ago Philip and I took to the roads of the south of England to complete the London to Brighton bike ride. We did it then as fresh faced banking analysts looking at an excuse to get away from the desk. We now return with a few more kilos, potentially even less sleep and definitely not enough training miles in the legs as it’s been too hot to do anything.

We require no donations for our efforts and it is potentially just an excuse for both of us to get out of the house on a Sunday but if you did feel kind enough to support, then will be fundraising for Small Steps again.

Small steps have supported my son Elis (and the rest of us) over the last 3 years. Attending on a Tuesday morning is the highlight of his week and seeing the photos of him slowly building strength is mine.

My son Elis has cerebral palsy following a stroke when he was 4 months old. For Elis, and other children like him, Small Steps helps work on all areas of their development, using the principles of conductive education.

Conductive education supports children through a phyisical and sensory therapy that provides the extra stimulation and assistance to help them reach even the most basic milestones.

At Small Steps, teachers, conductors and physiotherapists lead both parent and child through a structured programme designed to help each child achieve individualised developmental steps. The focus is very much on the positive; what children can and will achieve, with parents benefiting from the mutual support of shared experiences, on the emotional journey of having a disabled child. They also support the whole family providing emotional support and a safe calm space to meet parents in similar circumstances through the famous end of session tea and biscuits.

The work of Small Steps is a lifeline to families, and we would be extremely grateful for your support for this very worthy cause.

Most amazingly Small Steps sessions are 100% free (even the biscuits)

To remain accessible to all, there is no charge to families. The charity receives no statutory funding, so is solely dependent on charitable grants, fundraising, and donations. Raising sufficient funds is proving particularly challenging for Small Steps in the current financial climate. No matter what the amount, every little bit donated will make a big difference. Please dig deep and help Small Steps continue their amazing work enhancing the lives of disabled children and their families. Thank you.