During the working week, John Young is one of our dedicated Health and Safety Officers, quietly working behind the scenes to keep everyone across our sites safe, supported and protected. Outside of work, John finds his freedom on two wheels, spending his spare time cycling. 

Now, those two worlds are coming together. This June, John will be taking on an incredible 300km cycling challenge to raise funds for a vital piece of lifesaving equipment for our Portfield Sixth Form: a defibrillator. 

A defibrillator is something you hope you will never need but in a moment of crisis, it can make all the difference. For our students and colleagues, having one on site means faster response times, greater protection, and the reassurance that we are doing everything we can to keep our community safe. 

The essential equipment comes at a cost. John is aiming to raise £800, and every pound donated will take us one step closer to installing this lifesaving device. Whether you are a parent, a colleague, a friend, or someone who simply wants to support a good cause, your contribution will have a direct and meaningful impact. 

John won’t be taking on the challenge alone. As part of a local cycling group, he will be supported by fellow riders and by the time he crosses the finish line, including all his training rides, he will have clocked up more than 800km. It’s a huge personal commitment driven by his determination to protect the young people and staff he works so hard for every day. 

John said: 

Working in health and safety, I see every day how vital it is to have the right equipment available when it’s needed most. A defibrillator is one of those things you hope you never have to use but having one close by can make all the difference in an emergency. It could save a life. 

Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to ensuring that students and colleagues have the protection they deserve. I will be very grateful for any support you can offer.”   

At Autism Unlimited, our vision is for a world of endless possibilities for those living with autism. Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone we support is at the heart of that mission. By helping John reach his fundraising goal, you are directly contributing to a safer environment for our Sixth Form students and showing what can be achieved when a community comes together. 

Your support will make a real difference. Together, we can help put this vital piece of equipment in place. 

Donate and share John's page, every little will help John reach his goal.