V Norwood’s Annual dinner brought together 600 supporters to celebrate the achievements of individuals with neurodiversity and disabilities, including a man with cerebral palsy who defied medical expectations to become a racing driver.

Nicolas Hamilton, the half-brother of Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, shared his remarkable journey of shattering preconceptions to pursue his dream of racing, becoming the first disabled driver to compete in the British Touring Car Championship.

Giving a powerful speech at the event, which raised £2 million for Norwood’s services, Hamilton reflected on Norwood’s approach to client care, noting how the charity’s support allowed children and families to feel “a part of their community” – a feeling he said he had missed out on during his own childhood.

He also paid tribute to his mother, whose unwavering support helped him achieve his goals.

After hearing a moving testimony from Hannah Tobin, whose 12-year-old son Jacob has autism, Hamilton expressed his admiration for her strength. “Even though I am not Jacob, if Jacob were able to talk, he would say: ‘Thank you for absolutely everything you’ve done for me,’” he said, drawing applause from the audience.

Tobin, who spoke during the evening’s fundraising appeal, shared the challenges of raising a child with autism and the vital role of community support. “Navigating this path alone would be too much,” she said. “We rely on our family, friends and the support from Norwood, which gives us the opportunity to recharge and focus on his younger siblings.”

The event also marked an exciting new chapter for Norwood, with the theme “Us and Our Future”, spotlighting the charity’s plans to expand its services.

Naomi Dickson, Norwood’s chief executive, highlighted how the charity celebrated the strengths and abilities of neurodiverse members of its community, saying: “[Everyone] you meet tonight or on any visit to a Norwood location plays such a vital role in creating the inclusive culture we strive to achieve at Norwood. Every individual is celebrated for their strengths and supported to achieve their ambitions, whatever challenges they may face along the way.”

Miles Webber, chair of Norwood’s trustees, shared the charity’s strategy to meeting the growing demand for services, especially as public funding becomes more constrained.

“Throughout Norwood’s 230-year history, we’ve adapted to the changing needs of the people we support,” Webber said. “We are ready to refresh our approach to better serve vulnerable children and families.”