Prior’s Court Trio Embark on Epic 50km Fundraising Walk

An intrepid trio who work at an autism charity are striding out an epic fundraiser in aid of the young people they support.

Hannah Macham, Emily McEwan and Lauren Kingham have collectively worked at Hermitage-based Prior’s Court for more than 20 years, supporting autistic young people with complex needs.

The trio are taking on the 50km Race to the Stones challenge on Saturday, 13 July, an incredible walk through the Oxfordshire countryside along the historic The Ridgeway.

Hannah, Lauren (who both live in Thatcham) and Emily, from Newbury, are supporting Prior’s Court’s general funds appeal which goes towards purchasing things like outdoor play equipment for the autistic young people the charity supports. The fundraising target is £2,100.

For all three, this challenge is something completely new with no experience of marathons or long-distance walking.

Hannah, an Autism Practitioner who has been at Prior’s Court for nine years, said:

“I am definitely nervous about the challenge (and get more nervous every time I look at how far 50km is on a map). I’m really glad I’m doing this with Emily and Lauren so we can support and motivate each other through the tougher parts and I think we’ll be really proud once it’s done.

“I wanted to take on this challenge to push myself out of my comfort zone and to raise money so that our students can have access to opportunities and facilities that will bring them a lot of joy and smiles! It’s the best part of our job getting to see that.”

Each of the three have worked closely with autistic young people with complex needs at Prior’s Court in their careers.

Emily, Prior’s Court Care Manager, added:

“The young people at Prior’s Court make me proud every day with the progress they make and the things they achieve. I feel very lucky to be working with them. I wanted to do this challenge to raise some money for these incredible young people that we support.”

Lauren, also an Autism Practitioner who has worked at Prior’s Court since September 2016, said:

“I’ve never done something like this before. There is a strong mix of feeling excited and nervous right now. But I know it will be an amazing feeling when we all walk across that finish line.

“I wanted to challenge myself while I’m young and fit enough to and what a better opportunity than to help the amazing young people I work with.”

To donate, please visit their JustGiving page.