Merseyside to Manchester fundraising marathon

The team at Saturn Visual Solutions has taken on a major fundraising challenge in order to raise £5,000 for its charity partner, Better Things.

Eighteen of the company’s staff will walk 26 miles from St Helens Rugby League Club to Old Trafford FC in Manchester for the Manchester-based charity, which is run by a handful of part-time staff and volunteers.

It provides free or heavily subsidised activity sessions for people with learning disabilities and/or autism to help them feel less isolated and generally improve their quality of life.

CEO Chris Welsh, who is participating in the walk, said: “Having volunteered with Better Things, I’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of the activities they provide. They combat isolation, empower individuals, and foster confidence and skills in a nurturing environment. Our goal with the walk is to raise at least £5,000 to help Better Things expand their capacity to offer more life-changing sessions.”

Kate Maggs, CEO of Better Things said: “People with learning disabilities are twice as likely than the average person to be victims of bullying, and of verbal abuse and physical attacks from complete strangers. They are more likely to be discriminated against, and after leaving education most struggle to find employment and become isolated.

“We help people with learning disabilities to make friends and develop confidence through the activity sessions we run. We provide mental health support and help those who’ve suffered abuse through talking groups and individual support. The money that Saturn raises will be a huge boost for us to be able to help more people.”

Staff from Saturn volunteering at the Better Things Christmas party