Harriet from our Fordsfield Day Centre in Leamington Spa is stepping up for a challenge as she takes on Mencap’s One Big Walk this Learning Disability Week (15–21 June 2026).

One of Harriet’s much loved activities - Horse Riding with the RDA.

Harriet, who is one of just a few hundred people in the UK with the rare genetic condition Phelan-McDermid syndrome, is among thousands of supporters taking part in Mencap’s One Big Walk for Learning Disability Week. She will walk with friends from her day centre, the Fordsfield Centre, to Victoria Park in Leamington Spa on Thursday 18 June.

Harriet originally set herself a fundraising target of £100. So far, she has raised £910. Having received donations from friends, family and even complete strangers, her total is still climbing.

One Big Walk runs throughout Learning Disability Week, which this year carries the theme “Do you see me?” and marks the lead up to learning disability charity Mencap’s 80th anniversary. Participants are encouraged to walk or wheel 1.5 miles a day, take on a single 15-mile challenge, or join Mencap’s TikTok live walk on Friday 19 June — all to raise funds and shine a light on the 1.5 million people in the UK with a learning disability.

The funds Harriet raises will be split equally between Heart of England Mencap and Royal Mencap Society. Harriet has attended Fordsfield Centre, run by Heart of England Mencap for six years, even celebrating her 18th birthday there. It is a place her mother calls ‘home’, where Harriet enjoys swimming, cycling, horse riding, and discos. Harriet’s 12-year-old dog, Bassett, visits the centre with her. He may also accompany her on the fundraising walk.

For her mum, Melissa, the day centre has been life changing.

“As a single parent carer, it’s always just been me and Harriet. Since Harriet started at the centre and has been so happy here, it’s given me my life back. The hours are fantastic, so I’ve been able to get a job. I work in a care setting for young adults with additional needs,” Melissa says. “Harriet goes off on the bus in the morning with a huge smile, and she comes back with a huge smile. I know she’s had a fabulous day, and that’s totally reassuring. It’s like family here.”

On the fundraising, Melissa added, “We only set her target at £100, and she’s already raised £910. I keep sharing it and people just want to give. It’s incredible.”

Harriet has a learning disability and Phelan-McDermid syndrome, a rare genetic condition thought to impact between two and 10 in every million people. It can cause developmental delays, speech difficulties, and muscle weakness.

Harriet, who is non-verbal, has never fundraised before, but is excited to raise money for a cause so close to her heart.

Steve Mansfield, Head of Public Fundraising said “We want as many people as possible to get involved in One Big Walk during Learning Disability Week 2026. Every step taken and every pound raised helps shine a light on the 1.5 million people in the UK with a learning disability and supports our work to tackle stigma, challenge inequality and help people live life to the full. Harriet is a wonderful example of exactly that spirit. We are grateful for her fundraising, and everyone supporting us.”

Harriet’s One Big Walk

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