November's news and updates from Autism Hampshire
1st November 2025
Welcome to your November update from Autism Hampshire. In this edition, we’re sharing inspiring stories, staff achievements, fundraising highlights, and opportunities for parents, carers, and young people to get involved.
Thank you for being part of our community and helping us continue to make a positive difference for autistic people and their families across Hampshire.
Parent workshops: New dates released
Our Parent Workshops are for families of autistic children and young people - offering practical insight, advice and support to help families better understand their child’s experiences and develop strategies that meet their needs.
Each six-week course is CPD accredited and designed by autistic trainers. All workshops take place online via Microsoft Teams.
Upcoming course start dates include:
- Tuesday 4th November 2025
- Wednesday 5th November 2025
- Thursday 6th November 2025
- Monday 5th January 2026
- Tuesday 6th January 2026
- Wednesday 21st January 2026
- Thursday 29th January 2026
- Monday 9th February 2026
Find full dates and details of how to book your place on our website.
Calling all Co-op shoppers!
We've been chosen for the new round of the Co-op Local Community Fund in Fareham, Warsash, Park Gate and Portchester!
Already a member? Choose Autism Hampshire as your Local Cause.
Not yet signed up? Become a Co-op Member before 15 November and we can receive £5 for every new Co-op Member who supports us (up to £50).
And that's it! Every time you shop, a percentage goes directly to support autistic adults in our local communities. Join or sign in here.
Sue conquers the Inflatable 5k
Sue braved the heat, giant obstacles, and sheer exhaustion to complete the Inflatable 5k in Eastleigh - raising £210 for Autism Hampshire!
Having worked with Autism Hampshire since 2022 and receiving her own autism diagnosis later in life, Sue has seen the real impact of the charity’s work and was determined to give back.
Her determination is a powerful reminder that fundraising is about more than just money - it’s about inspiration, resilience, and showing what can be achieved when you refuse to give up.
Read Sue's full story here.
Mark Leech takes on UWCB challenge
Cllr Mark Leech has been training hard and is taking on the Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) event in Andover on 8th November 2025 to raise funds for Autism Hampshire and the Stroke Association.
So far, Mark has raised an impressive £1,930, thanks to the support of his corporate sponsors, colleagues, friends, and the wider community.
Mark’s commitment is a great example of how determination and community support can make a real difference.
Visit UWCB's website if you’d like to go along and watch. Or support Mark with a donation via Mark's fundraising page.
From hairdresser to coordinator
Inspired by her autistic daughter, Georgie Russell joined Autism Hampshire in May as a Serendipity Groups Coordinator - and has quickly made an impact.
“I wanted to help create safe spaces for autistic people and put what I’d learned through my daughter’s diagnosis into practice,” Georgie said.
Since starting, she’s loved working with group members, building relationships, and having fun while supporting them. Her dedication was recognised when she was named Employee of the Month in July and shortlisted for Newcomer of the Year in September.
Georgie and the Serendipity team are now looking for volunteers to help out at the groups a few hours each month. Read the full story on our website.
Accessibility Ambassadors
Are you aged 12–25? Could you join the Accessibility Ambassadors pilot project and help make local spaces more welcoming for everyone?
As an ambassador, you’ll:
- Visit venues like parks, libraries, and leisure centres to assess accessibility.
- Create guides to help venues improve.
- Share your ideas to make real change happen.
This youth-led initiative is run by Hampshire SEND Youth Forum, #BeeWell Youth Matters Steering Group, and Youthwatch.
Interested? Email SEND.Emp@hants.gov.uk or find out more on Hampshire County Council's website.
Keanu’s Mini Great South Run success!
Five-year-old Keanu took on the 1.2km Mini Great South Run alongside his uncle Stephen to raise money for Autism Hampshire - and we couldn’t be prouder!
Keanu is autistic and full of energy, joy, and determination. His mum, Emma, shared how Autism Hampshire supported their family through his diagnosis journey, and now Keanu wanted to give something back.
We’re so inspired by his kindness and enthusiasm - a true reminder that even the smallest runners can make a big difference!
Find out more about Keanu’s fundraising effort here.
Celebrating our colleagues' achievements
Autism Hampshire colleagues came together for a fun and festive staff celebration in September. Around 50 people enjoyed a curry lunch, cheesecake, and were wowed by a magician’s mind-bending tricks.
The highlight of the day was recognising the outstanding efforts of staff across the organisation, with awards presented by Jeremy Brown and the leadership team. Read the full list of winners here.
Thank you for supporting Autism Hampshire.
With your help, we can continue making a difference in the lives of autistic people and their families in the local area.
If there is anything you would like to hear about but don’t see in our updates, please let us know by emailing marketing@autismhampshire.org.uk.