Family sets up GoFundMe page to buy dream caravan for autistic Belle Vale ‘hero’

The family of an autistic man from Belle Vale has set up a GoFundMe page to help buy him his own dream caravan.

Billy Moore, 51, is hoping to raise £40,000 to cover the cost of a caravan and initial site fees for his 45-year-old brother Joe.

And he says: “It would mean the absolute world to him if we can do it.

“Joe is blessed with innocence, and his autism allows him to be himself, no script, no agenda. He’s just a loving soul who truly deserves his lifetime dream.

“Joe is obsessed with caravans.

“He enjoys the simple things, the bingo, the discos on the caravan site, and the fish and chips; and he would just love to have a van of his own.”

Billy adds: “Joe does so much for others, so we would love to do this for him.”

A caravan would be even more special to Joe because he’s finally learning to enjoy life again.

A few years ago, cruel bullies made it a misery when he suffered taunts and abuse because of his disability.

He was reluctant to go to McDonald’s in Aigburth where he works two days a week, and he was scared to go out of his home.

The bullying left Joe isolated and had a huge impact on his mental health and anxiety.

Billy and Joe with Ricky Tomlinson at Goodison

“Joe told me all he wanted was for people to be kind,” says Billy.

Gradually with the support of Billy, Joe, who lives with his mum Pat, has regained his confidence and got back to living his life.

Billy says: “It’s taken a long time to get him to where he is now.

“Joe is a beautiful caring person with a big heart, and he’s got a smile that would brighten up your day.

“He does so much for his community, setting up for OAPs’ bingo and helping with meals at the Millennium Centre near where he lives, and raising money for lots of local charities and causes.

“He’s done loads of challenges to do this, like walking up Moel Famau and Snowdon in North Wales, which is his favourite place, and doing the Liverpool 5K Santa Dash every year. So far, he’s raised more than £30,000 for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, the NHS, autism clubs, and his community.”

Joe has even completed challenges, like a walk from Otterspool to the Pier Head, to raise money to support the GoFundMe appeal for his caravan.

“Joe is my hero,” says Billy. “He’s taught me so much, especially the importance of family. I wasn’t there for him when he was younger and I’m trying to make up for it now.

“If I can do this for Joe, and get him the caravan that he dreams about, it would be amazing.”