Independent folk-rock outfit Kind Hearted Thieves have teamed up with chart-topping singer-songwriter Frank Turner for the release of a new single, “Sublime”, which is out now on all major streaming platforms. More than just a song, the single marks the launch of a charitable campaign to raise funds for private autism assessments for two children, a cause aimed at helping them bypass the long waiting lists on the NHS.
The song’s inspiration came from a deeply personal experience for the Blackpool-based band’s frontman, Jay, when he overheard his autistic daughter telling herself that she “wasn’t good enough.” That heartbreaking moment spurred him to write “Sublime” as a soaring, affirming anthem intended to act as a positive mantra for anyone struggling with self-worth.
Jay explained the song’s core message:
I wanted to write something she—or anyone—could repeat when they’re hurting. Something that reminds you that you’re not just enough… you’re sublime.
The campaign addresses the urgency of the current situation in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). According to data from March 2024, over 212,000 people in England are currently waiting for an autism assessment. Despite the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance stating that no one should wait longer than 13 weeks, reports indicate that 89% of people wait significantly longer, with some areas—including Blackpool, where Kind Hearted Thieves are based—facing average delays of 2.7 years.
Such prolonged delays can be life-altering, potentially leading to missed early intervention, sustained confusion, and a lack of support that contributes to serious mental health struggles. A study in the journal Autism (Cassidy et al., 2018) highlighted this critical link, finding that 66% of autistic adults who experienced delays in diagnosis reported lifetime suicidal thoughts.
“We’re aiming to raise enough to fund private assessments for two children—a small step, but one that could change lives. We hope the song brings comfort, and the campaign brings action,” Jay added.
The band urges people to help by streaming the single “Sublime”, donating or sharing the accompanying GoFundMe campaign, and raising awareness of the critical need for timely autism assessments. This effort is the latest example of both Frank Turner’s and Kind Hearted Thieves’ commitment to using their music for grassroots activism and social good.
Kind Hearted Thieves are also playing a fundraiser at Bootleg Social in Blackpool on October 3rd. Tickets are available now, and support is from Betty Kendrick & Pulse. A portion of proceeds go to Fylde Kids Foundation.
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