What We Are Doing

Teams from Saturn Visual Solutions and Better Things are going to do a gruelling 26 mile walk from St Helens Rugby League Club in Merseyside to Old Trafford FC in Manchester to raise money for our charity partner Better Things.

We are raising money to help Better Things provide free or heavily subsidised activity sessions for people with learning disabilities and/or autism to help them feel less isolated and generally improve their quality of life.

Why We're Doing It

Why are we doing the walk? Here are some stories about people that Better Things has helped and continues to help.

Chris

Chris has autism. When he was under 18, he was a victim of bullying both online and in person. It had a significant effect on his mental health and he developed social anxiety issues. He stopped doing any sociable activities and using social media, which reduced his ability to stay in contact with existing friends and make new ones, and left him very isolated and he began self-harming.

As part of Chris’ transition from youth to adult services, he came to one of Better Things’ activity sessions and found it to be a relaxed, friendly and safe environment. During the session he got to know new people including some who attend the charity’s football practice sessions. The Better Things environment made him feel comfortable enough to try out one of the football sessions and he has never looked back.

Initially, his anxieties meant that he struggled to attend even half a session. Over time his social anxieties have reduced and he now regularly attends football practice and completes whole sessions. Furthermore, he has made new friends that he has lots in common with and chooses to socialise with them after the soccer practices have ended.

Sally

Sally is a young woman who is an elective mute and only has movement in one arm, due to having had a stroke. With help from Better Things and the supportive environment it creates, Sally was able to successfully take part in one of its activity sessions and enjoy it.

She is now a regular participant in the charity’s cricket and netball sessions, despite her reduced mobility, and has become a valued team member. Her self-esteem has dramatically improved in line with her involvement with Better Things.