Art with heart: Inktober originals supporting Autism Hampshire

10th November 2025

A New Forest-based artist and writer is offering the opportunity to own one of her original Inktober illustrations with 10% of every sale donated to Autism Hampshire - a charity that has played a vital role in supporting her family.

When Jo Cockwell’s daughter received her autism diagnosis in 2022, at age 17, Jo came across Autism Hampshire – and found the support they needed.

Guidance and training with Autism Hampshire

Jo explained: “Every time our daughter comes to her next hurdle (and therefore, our next hurdle as a family), I have reached out to places that have been recommended to me. In almost every instance I end up more confused than ever and coming back to calling Autism Hampshire. The advice is always clear, straightforward and helpful.”

She describes the charity’s support as consistently clear, kind, and practical - whether navigating the initial diagnosis, university transitions, or recovery from burnout.

“There have been many occasions when I have called Autism Hampshire. Every single time the person I have spoken to has gently guided me onto the right track,” said Jo.

One particularly meaningful moment came when Jo’s daughter attended the free workshops for autistic adults run by Autism Hampshire.

“They were the first thing our daughter engaged with post diagnosis (in my view) because they were run by the rather brilliant Dave,” said Jo.

“Being empowered by others who are neurodivergent, set my daughter on an upward trajectory when for so long she had been down. It was a wonderful place for her to start her journey of acceptance.”

Creativity, community, and giving back

Jo’s journey into art and storytelling is as rich and layered as her illustrations. She grew up in Ringwood, studied in London, and qualified as a solicitor before moving to the New Forest to raise her family.

It was during this time that she rediscovered her love for drawing and creative writing - passions that now fuel her work on children’s books and daily art challenges like Inktober.

“Inktober is a useful, very fast challenge,” Jo explained. “It’s about showing up for a short time every day - which works well when family needs always come first.”

Jo’s decision to donate a portion of her Inktober sales is a way of giving back to the organisation that helped her family. It’s also a chance for others to support Autism Hampshire while owning a unique piece of art created with care and intention.

You can purchase Jo’s Inktober originals on Instagram (@jocockwell) and explore more of her work at www.jocockwell.com.

If you have an idea to fundraise for Autism Hampshire visit our fundraising webpage or email fundraising@autismhampshire.org.uk.