Transport firm backs Northampton-based Autism Concern

Staff from the XPO Logistics’ Carlsberg depot in Swan Valley, organised and ran a number of fundraising initiatives for Autism Concern last year ahead of the charity’s 25th jubilee year celebrations which began in January.

Various raffles and canteen collection boxes were among the fundraisers, as well as a 20/20 cricket match held at Northampton Saints Cricket Club last July, which involved a play-off between XPO Logistics staff teams and raised over £200 alone.

The final total amounted to £737.26 over 2016, and a cheque was recently presented to staff at Autism Concern as a special jubilee anniversary gift.

Shaun Waring is a member of XPO logistics’ charity committee.

He said: “We would like to thank Autism Concern very much for giving XPO colleagues the opportunity to support a worthy charity, how quick a year has gone by. Everyone at the XPO Logistics Carlsberg contract would like to wish Autism Concern good luck for the future and in all they commit to over the coming year during their jubilee celebrations.”

Julia Hardcastle, managing director of Autism Concern, added: “We are absolutely delighted to have support from such a well-known international logistics company and are very grateful to the members of staff who took part in the various fundraising activities to make up this substantial donation.

“The contribution has come as we continue our jubilee anniversary celebrations and it will go towards improving our services for children, including our dedicated support line, targeted training for parents, information and drop-in sessions and support for schools.”

Also to mark its quarter century, Autism Concern has launched a new jubilee year fundraising campaign, aiming to raise £25,000. Three levels of giving have been established:

* Platinum Jubilee donor: £2,500 a year or £220 a month via Direct Debit

* Gold Jubilee donor: £1,200 a year or £100 a month via Direct Debit

* Silver Jubilee donor: £300 a year or £25 a month via Direct Debit

There are lots of ways you can get involved in Autism Concern’s Jubilee year:

* Follow the charity on Twitter or Facebook and post a happy birthday message of support

* Check out the charity’s website, where regular stories about families supported by the charity, will be posted.

* Become a jubilee donor and support this charity during its 25th year.

To support Autism Concern, visit www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/autismconcern/ac2525 or text ACIS25 £(up to £10 ) to 70070.

More information www.autismconcern.org