In February 2009, along with a few other people, Emma and I started Chat 'n' Chill - a youth group for teenagers who had autism; who wanted somewhere to go to make friends, be accepted for who they are and have a good time away from their families. Since beginning the group we have both trained to be Educational Psychologists and left our original jobs in the autism team, but we have not yet been able to leave Youth Group - if you knew the young people you would completely understand why.

After convincing the team that a residential would be a good idea in the early days we have come to realise just how important, and rewarding, these trips can be for our young people. We are trying to raise a total of £2000 so that we can go on a residential in 2018. Last summer we completed a sponsored bike ride and hit just over 50% of our target so we know want to put a further dent in the target.

To do this, seeing as Emma and I got us into this, we have decided to do Dry January. Whilst we know this is typically done for a cause that is very close to our hearts we also know the impact that a weekend away will have on our young people and their families.

January is always a tricky time to have loose change flying around but anything that can be given would be greatly appreciated - every penny counts and all that!!

Thank You :-)