A STAFF member for Christchurch-based charity Autism Unlimited is set to brave the shave in the New Year.
IT Technician David Batt, 61, will have his locks shorn for the charity’s Christmas Fundraising Appeal on January 14 by Trev Kearl, the head of estates for Autism Unlimited.
The week before he gets the chop, his hair will be dyed a fetching shade of teal, the brand colour of the charity.
Mr Batt said: “I’ve been working for Autism Unlimited for six months, and every day I see how hard my colleagues work to change the children’s lives and help them to achieve their potential.
“So, when I heard an appeal had been launched to fundraise for a new climbing frame for the youngest children at our Portfield School, I knew I wanted to do something to help.”
He added: “I asked a lot of people for suggestions on how to raise the money and a head shave was the most popular.
“It’s all hands on deck with another colleague Hannah, who will also be dyeing my hair teal a week before the shave, which will certainly get me noticed!
“My family and friends are all behind me on this and think it’s a great thing to do to raise funds.”
Autism Unlimited has launched an appeal to raise £26k to fund new play equipment for its reception-age class, Stepping Stones.
The children have been without a climbing frame since October half term, when the previous equipment was removed after falling into disrepair.
Anna Hewitt, headteacher at Portfield School said: “We are all full of admiration for David for volunteering to brave the clippers for the appeal. It would be wonderful if people would sponsor him.”
Ms Hewitt added: “For autistic children, play has a vital role in supporting their focus, decreasing stress, and helping them to regulate emotions leading to reduced stress, anxiety, and frustration.
“Time spent in the playground is a treasured part of the day here at Portfield School and the youngest children are obviously disappointed each time they come out to the playground and see the space where their play frame used to be.
“To reach our target of £26k, we need the support of our community to donate, fundraise and spread awareness of our appeal – and more people like our wonderful David to come forward!”
Mr Batt can be sponsored at https://www.justgiving.com/page/david-batt-1733735711408
Businesses and individuals are being asked to support the appeal in any way they can, including by direct donation or through a fundraising event.
For more information and to donate, get in touch with Carol Borwick via email at fundraising@autism-unlimited.org, or give the team a call at 01202 483360.
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