Katie steps into the ring for Autism Hampshire

An Autism Hampshire supporter is gearing up for a fundraising challenge that is taking her completely out of her comfort zone - a charity boxing match.

Katie Dickson will be taking part in an Ultra White Collar Boxing event on 11 April 2026 and has just begun an intensive eight‑week training programme to prepare for fight night.

For Katie, supporting Autism Hampshire is deeply personal. Her mother, Mandy Dickson, has been part of the charity for the past five years and currently works as a Service Manager for the Supported Living services.

Through her mum’s work, Katie has seen the impact of Autism Hampshire’s support first-hand.

Katie said: “Autism Hampshire is very close to my heart because of my mum. Through her, I’ve been able to see first-hand the incredible support Autism Hampshire provides to autistic people and their families, and how much of a difference that support makes in people’s everyday lives.

“It’s a cause that means a lot to my whole family, so fundraising for Autism Hampshire felt like a very personal and meaningful choice.”

She hopes her efforts will raise both awareness and vital funds for Autism Hampshire’s work.

Katie started her training on 11 February, joining a structured programme designed to take complete beginners through boxing fundamentals and build them up to a safe and confident fight.

It’s a challenge that excites her - and one she admits will push her farther than anything she’s done before.

“It really is an exciting time, and I can’t believe how close it’s getting now!” said Katie.

“I chose boxing as my fundraising challenge because I wanted to push myself completely out of my comfort zone. I knew I wanted a challenge that would be physically and mentally demanding - something that would really test my resilience and commitment.

“Boxing felt like the perfect way to do that while raising money for such an important cause.”

Autism Hampshire is hugely grateful for Katie’s commitment, courage, and enthusiasm. Fundraisers like her help make our work possible, and we can’t wait to cheer her on every step of the way.

Please visit Katie’s fundraising page here: https://givestar.io/gs/ultra-white-collar-boxing-fundraising-4262