TalkTalk Telecom : raises over £3.5 million in support of children and young people with autism

TalkTalk continues to transform lives in the UK by working with Ambitious about Autism to raise £420K through its annual charity gala, Night of Ambition.

Since 2006, TalkTalk has raised over £3.5 million for Ambitious about Autism, which has helped to improve the lives of children and young people with autism across the UK.

Over 500 guests, including TalkTalk employees, customers and suppliers, joined TalkTalk Chief Executive Tristia Harrison and attended Night of Ambition, at the Supernova pop-up venue in central London on Friday 24 November.

The evening, which was hosted by Tina Hobley, saw guests raise money by bidding for a series of unique auction lots, including artwork created by former pupils at Ambitious College as well as TreeHouse School. Music was provided by upcoming singer-songwriter Tom Grennan and sponsored by FNS/2W.

During the gala, guests also pledged to support Autism Exchange, an award-winning programme set up by Ambitious about Autism to get more young people with autism into the workplace.

The initiative aims to ensure young people with autism are given the careers advice and work experience they need to prepare them for the workplace and employers have the training and understanding to recruit and support people on the autism spectrum. TalkTalk has already taken part in the scheme and welcomed their first work experience placement student, earlier this year.

Ambitious about Autism Chief Executive, Jolanta Lasota, said:'Once again TalkTalk has pulled out all the stops for an incredible night in support of Ambitious about Autism's work.'

'We've been working in partnership with TalkTalk for over 10 years now, and their continuing commitment and support has been truly invaluable in helping us to change the lives of children and young people with autism.'

'Thank you to all who took part for championing the potential of young people with autism with your amazing generosity.'

TalkTalk Chief Executive, Tristia Harrison, said:'We're thrilled to have raised £420K for our long standing charity partner Ambitious about Autism at this year's Night of Ambition.'

'We'd like to thank everyone for all their generous donations that will enable this charity to continue their amazing work for children and young people with autism.'

ENDS

For more information please contact Alex Ruddock-West on alex.ruddockwest@talktalkplc.com or 02034 171867.