So his father, Mark, understands better than most the effects of autism, a lifelong developmental disability that is characterised by impaired social relationships and communication and by a lack of imagination. But there are few who have the opportunity or the drive to use this knowledge in their professional life.
Hutchings works with socially excluded young people in Bethnal Green, a deprived area of east London. Some of these young people have autistic tendencies, so it is both for personal and professional reasons that Hutchings is to put his 41-year-old body through the brutal trial of the London Marathon.
He is pounding the streets in preparation for the 26.2 mile race on 18 April, as a member of a 120-strong team in aid of the National Autistic Society.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
