I’m running the 10K at Brighton Marathon Weekend to raise £5,000 for Team Domenica — an incredible charity that helps young people with learning disabilities and autism gain the skills, confidence, and independence they need to find meaningful work and build fulfilling lives.

Team Domenica was founded in 2016 by my cousin, Rosa Monckton, inspired by her daughter, Domenica, who has Down’s syndrome.

When Domenica left school, Rosa saw first-hand how few opportunities existed for adults with learning disabilities and autism. Determined to change this, she created Team Domenica — a community built to remove barriers, open doors to employment, and help young people realise their potential.

What they do works.

Candidates take part in a two-year employment programme combining classroom learning, life-skills training, enrichment activities, and real-world work experience in the charity’s cafés and pub. They also partner with local businesses to create accessible internships and job opportunities.

The impact is extraordinary:

• In England, fewer than 5% of people with learning disabilities are in paid employment.

• At Team Domenica, 75% of candidates secure paid work through the Supported Internship Programme.

• And 86% stay in their jobs for at least two years.

One candidate said it best:

“This place has changed my life… it’s given me hope. I feel ready for the future and like I can do anything.”

If you’re able to support, any donation - big or small - will help Team Domenica continue opening doors and changing lives.

Thank you!