Our Supporters
Zachary Hirst, founder Sensorytoys.co.uk
Supplier of specialist sensory equipment for children based in Andover. After years running a successful events business, Zachary realised that families of children with additional needs rarely had access to the sensory equipment that they needed. In March 2020, Sensorytoys.co.uk was created, to provide families in need with specialist equipment for free hire in a home environment. Zachary also decided that he would donate sensory toys for personal use, hopefully helping to support families managing their children’s needs.
Matthew Stanton, Cycle Science, Bicycle repair and maintenance
"I'm a professional bike mechanic with a full workshop doing something I love in a place that keeps me happy"
Matthew is autistic and is the owner of bicycle repair business, Cycle Science. While growing up, Matthew discovered a passion for mountain biking, using it as a stress release and an escape. With 30 years of bike maintenance experience behind him, he set up his business in the midst of the pandemic in 2020. He says he was lucky to be supported by his loving family, but there are many people with disabilities out there who are not so lucky. This led him to offer free servicing (excluding parts) for people with hidden disabilities, to help give them the chance to experience the benefits that cycling brings to mental and physical wellbeing. Matthew is based in Pondtail, Fleet.
Fleet Morrisons
Morrisons in Elvetham Heath operate a "Quieter Hour" every Saturday at 9am-10am and every Sunday at 10am-11am. During Quieter Hours stores will:
- Dim the lights
- Turn music and radio off
- Avoid making tannoy announcements
- Reduce movement of trolleys and baskets
- Turn checkout beeps and other electrical noises down
- Place a poster outside to tell customers it's Quieter Hour
Read more about Morrisons Quieter Hour
Fleet Waitrose
Waitrose in Fleet have been fully on board with our aims and objectives since we started the charity. They have since hosted a well attended autism friendly food tasting event. They have twice raised funds for us via their green token box scheme for local charities. They have also invited us in to deliver a presentation to staff about autism and creating an autism friendly environment. Waitrose has many qualities to recommend itself to autistic people in Fleet - caring community minded staff and you always know where to go for your shopping items as the location of goods in the aisles are never changed.
Sue Phillips, Fleet Barbers
Sue has many years experience of working as a barber. She has attended our Basic Autism Awareness training twice and now offers autism friendly barber appointments. These are private appointments, where the lights will be dimmed, there will be no background music and there will be sensory toys available. Sue is very good at putting people at ease during the hair cutting process. Call 07593 109782 to discuss needs and make an appointment. Booking is essential.
Fleet Barbers are located on the high street, 188 Fleet Road, Fleet, GU51 4DA
