Newcastle-Under-Lyme Family Takes on 5k Fun Run to Support Disabled and Neurodivergent Children
A dedicated mother from Newcastle-Under-Lyme is spearheading a fundraising campaign to aid disabled and neurodivergent children, drawing inspiration from her family's personal experiences with neurodivergence. Carly Outerbridge, along with her husband and daughter, will participate in Caudwell Children's Spring Into Action 5k Fun Run this week, an event backed by Keele University. By joining this family-friendly activity, they aim to contribute to personalised support and life-changing equipment for children across the United Kingdom.
Personal Journey Fuels Fundraising Efforts
Carly Outerbridge, who serves as a Placements and Project Manager at Keele University, shared her family's heartfelt connection to autism. "Autism is incredibly close to our hearts, and it's a big part of the journey we're on together as a family," she explained. "We know first-hand how challenging it can be to be neurodivergent, and how difficult it is when you feel misunderstood by the world around you."
The family's path began seven years ago when Carly's husband first suspected he might be neurodivergent. Initially, his GP informed him that an NHS assessment referral was not available, leading them to believe private options were out of reach. "We didn't know at that time that a private assessment was an option, so we left it at that," Carly recounted. However, last year, as his autistic traits became more pronounced during the pandemic, they conducted further research. He returned to his GP and is now on the NHS Right to Choose pathway, nearing an ADHD diagnosis while awaiting an autism assessment.
Simultaneously, their daughter is navigating her own diagnostic journey. Carly described her struggles: "Our daughter has always struggled in social situations, hiding behind us in new environments. She doesn't like change and has anxiety, which sometimes causes her physical illness, amongst other key traits." She often masks her behaviours at school to fit in, a common phenomenon among girls. Carly emphasized, "Sometimes friends and relatives are surprised when we talk about neurodivergent family members, citing that they don't 'appear autistic'. But I explain that it's part of masking."
Spring Into Action: A Family-Friendly Event
The Outerbridge family, all self-described 'inexperienced runners', tackled the 5k route at Keele University on Sunday, April 19, 2026. This inclusive event encourages participants of all ages and abilities to walk, jog, or run in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Fancy dress is promoted, with prizes awarded for the best costumes, adding a festive touch to the spring-themed run.
Kathryn Turner-Morgan, Challenges Manager at Caudwell Children, praised the family's efforts: "By fundraising for Caudwell Children, the Outerbridge family is helping disabled and neurodivergent children have brighter, more independent futures. Their support means we can help more families through services like autism assessments, mobility and sensory equipment, occupational therapy and our Shaping Futures employability programme."
About Caudwell Children
Founded in 2000 by entrepreneur and philanthropist John Caudwell, Caudwell Children has evolved over 25 years into a leading UK charity dedicated to supporting disabled and neurodivergent children and their families. The organisation's vision is a world where every such child has the opportunity, support, and freedom to realise their unique potential. All donations directly fund practical and emotional services, developed with input from children and families themselves.
To contribute to this cause, donations can be made via Carly's JustGiving page. For more information on the Spring Into Action campaign, visit the official Caudwell Children website.
