THE PRIME Minister, Rishi Sunak, has praised a Chelmsley Wood teenager who has been stepping out as part of an autism awareness campaign.
Alfie Ford set himself the challenge to walk 15,000 steps every day through the month of April, marking Autism Awareness Month.
The 17-year-old, who has autism and dyspraxia, pledged to challenge public misconceptions surrounding those that have autism while raising funds for the National Autistic Society.
During Prime Minister’s Questions Mr Sunak praised Alfie’s challenge and campaign to raise awareness of autism and his fundraising efforts, wishing him “the best of luck” and calling him “an inspiration, not just to his community, but to many others”.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the work the Government has done on the autism strategy to help support people with autism.
Mr Sunak said: “Can I start by praising Alfie for his fantastic efforts. He’s an inspiration, not just to his community, but to many others.
“Our autism strategy sets out our ambition to ensure that autistic people across all parts of the country get the support they need to live fulfilling and happy lives.
“And I look forward to seeing Alfie’s progress on the rest of his journey.”
Alfie has raised more than £1,000 and was joined on one of his daily walks by Meriden MP Saqib Bhatti.
Speaking in Prime Ministers Questions, Mr Bhatti said: “I joined my 17 year old constituent Alfie Ford in walking to raise funds for the National Autistic Society.”
“Alfie’s mission is to walk 15,000 steps every day in the month of April to raise awareness around autism and to show that every autistic person deserves the best chances in life.”
“Will the Prime Minister join me in wishing Alfie the very best for his walk and his noble mission to change the way people think about autism for good?”
