Matthew Hesmondhalgh

I am nominating Matthew because through his foresight and determination he has made a phenomenal difference to the lives of many autistic children, young people, adults and their families in Sheffield. Initially he set up the Integrated Resource Unit at King Ecgberts School, Sheffield, providing a facility for young people with autism to be educated alongside their peers, to develop academically but more importantly to gain in confidence both emotionally and socially and equipping them with many life skills. With 85% of autistic adults being unemployed, Matthew realised that if these young people were to make a successful transition into the world of employment they would need additional support and so founded The Autism Centre for Supported Employment - a charity which helps young autistic people find work placements, supports them during their placement and continues the support when they hopefully gain paid employment. Matthew's constant drive and determination plus the motivation he provides to those teaching and supporting young people with autism and to their families is inspirational and humbling. He believes passionately in what he does and with the support of his amazing family spends much of his leisure time fundraising with colleagues and providing help, advice and support to parents and pupils who may be struggling with problems, often in isolation. Matthew is an inspiration and undoubtedly deserves the honour of bearing the Olympic Torch in 2012.