THE AUDIOLOGY team at Specsavers Swansea has taken part in the National Autistic Society’s ‘Walk 5k in April’ challenge, joining a UK-wide effort to raise awareness and understanding of autism during World Autism Acceptance Month (April 2 – April 30).
Led by audiology director Amy-Ffion Davies, whose 4-year-old son Sylifan is autistic, the team walked five-kilometres along the Swansea seafront from Mumbles, interacting with the community along the way.
Ms Davies was joined by retail director Chris Jones, trainee hearing aid dispenser Hayley Jones and other colleagues from the Specsavers Swansea and Mumbles stores. Together, they raised £250 through in-store donations and an online fundraising page.
Ms Davies said: “As a parent of an autistic child who is non-verbal and at the higher end of the spectrum, the support we’ve received from the National Autistic Society has been invaluable.
“It means so much to be able to give back and support the charity that has helped us so much, while also raising awareness of the experiences of autistic individuals and the importance of early understanding and support.
“At Specsavers, we’re passionate about giving back to our community and this was a meaningful way for our team to support a cause that helps so many families in the area.
“We’re really grateful to everyone who donated or cheered us on along the route – your support made the day even more special.”
The National Autistic Society is the UK’s leading charity for autistic people and their families, providing support and campaigning for improved rights and services.
Kim Featherstone, assistant director of fundraising and supporter engagement at The National Autistic Society, said: “We want to say a big thank you to the audiology team at Specsavers Swansea for their support during World Autism Acceptance Month.
“It is so wonderful to see businesses and colleagues come together in this way and the Swansea audiology team is a brilliant example of this.
“All money raised will go towards our vital work to achieve our aims and ultimately help create a society that works for autistic people. Without the kindness of supporters like the Specsavers team in Swansea, we couldn’t do what we do.”
Specsavers Swansea is open seven days a week. For more information, to book an appointment or browse the online store, visit the Specsavers Swansea webpage.
Additionally, to make eye and ear health accessible to all, the store offers a Home Visits service for those unable to leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness.
