Walk for Autism UK and Ireland is celebrating a record start to its 2021 campaign, surpassing 1,000 registered walkers with over £85,000 raised so far.

The fundraising team are encouraging more people to get involved in their bid to raise as much money as possible to support autistic people and their families through the charity Autism Initiatives Group.

Walk for Autism will see individuals across the UK and Ireland walking 10,000 steps a day for eight days finishing on World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.

Head of Enterprise at Autism Initiatives Jon Gordon said: “We are delighted with the initial results of our fourth annual Walk for Autism campaign and are on course for a record-breaking year in terms of sign-ups and money raised. Last year we achieved over £90,000 which funded and supported a number of life-changing projects and activities for people with autism and their families across the UK and Ireland. After what has been a difficult and uncertain 12 months for so many, particularly for those with autism, we’re determined to join forces with all of our incredible walkers and do the very best we can in 2021.

“We believe that this campaign is also offering people an opportunity to look after their own wellbeing, with a reason to get outdoors and walk while doing something positive for their community. In these unprecedented times, walkers can still take part in the campaign solo, which means it’s completely safe in line with restrictions. For those unable to get out and about in their local area, steps at home or in the garden count too.

“Although we’re on course for our most successful year to date, our message to the public is that we need your continued support. We’re incredibly optimistic about what we can achieve and can’t emphasise enough what a difference this will make to people. Let’s keep going and make some good out of what has been a difficult period as a result of Covid-19. Collectively, we can make this our best year yet!”

Although Walk for Autism UK & Ireland officially takes place from March 26 to April 2, those taking part are free to undertake their eight-day steps challenge at any time that suits them.

Walk for Autism is a fundraising campaign led by charity Autism Initiatives Group (registered charity number 1170634) who have been working to improve the lives of autistic people and their families across the UK and Ireland for almost 50 years.

For more information, or to sign up visit www.walkforautism.co.uk

From the archives: Walk For Autism celebrates record number of sign-ups for 2020 campaign, which can be undertaken solo in any location