On 14 November 2026, we will be heading off to India to visit the Dalai Lama and trek through the foothills of the Himalayas with a group of 15 challengers from Jersey.

Those of you who know us well will understand why autism is a cause so close to Richard’s heart and mine, and why we have spent so many years doing slightly daft things to raise money for Autism Jersey!

This will be our fifth trek to raise funds for a charity that means so much to us. Over the years, we have helped raised nearly £250,000 to support Autism Jersey, a charity we helped to establish more than 20 years ago.

And this will be our final trekking challenge! Age, creaky bones and a growing appreciation for creature comforts mean that our next adventure will probably be something a little gentler!

But there is a serious reason behind all this.

Autism Jersey does fantastic work championing the rights of autistic people and helping them, their families and carers to live full and inclusive lives.

Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how people communicate, interact with others and experience the world around them. Autistic people may see, hear and experience things differently, and aspects of everyday life that others take for granted can sometimes feel overwhelming. School, work, relationships and social situations can all present additional challenges.

Autism is not something that needs to be cured. But the right understanding, opportunities and support can make an enormous difference to people's lives.

There are many autistic people living in Jersey, and Autism Jersey provides vital services and support to individuals and families across the Island. Without those services, some people with more complex needs could face the prospect of having to leave Jersey to receive the care and support they need.

That is why we keep putting on our walking boots!

Our adventure will begin in Delhi before we travel north to Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj, home of the Dalai Lama. From there, we will trek through the Himalayan foothills, following a route largely alongside the Uhl River.

It promises to be every bit as challenging as our previous treks, with difficult terrain, long days and no doubt a few aching muscles along the way!

But whenever the going gets tough, we will remind ourselves that our temporary discomfort is nothing compared with the challenges that some autistic people and their families face every single day.

We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved for Autism Jersey over the years, and we would love to make this final trek one to remember.

If you can spare a few pounds to support us, we would be enormously grateful. Every donation, however small, will help Autism Jersey continue its invaluable work supporting autistic people and their families in our Island.

Thank you so much for your support. It really does mean the world to us.

xx