Supermum Jo raises more than £700 for Spectrum Project at Bristol Half Marathon

Jo, (pictured top left) from Nailsea, was inspired by the life-changing effect the Spectrum Project has had on her son, Charlie, who has high-functioning autism.

Charlie has worked alongside Kris Tavender as part of Spectrum’s work experience programme – an experience Jo says has aided his independence.

Prior to the race, she said: “I am so grateful to the Spectrum Project. Charlie loves being part of this and the fact that he is at rugby with other young people and not his mother. It makes him feel independent and like an adult.”

Spectrum Project programme manager, Kris Tavender, said: “We are hugely grateful to Jo for her incredible fundraising efforts.

“The money she has raised will enable us to continue supporting young people - like Charlie – and we are so very proud of both Jo and her son.”

Spectrum Project targets service users with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) across Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

Spectrum aims to increase and develop SEND provision in the areas of sport and leisure, personal development and work experience opportunities through tailored programs, within special schools and other specialist providers.