A SUPPORT group for families of autistic children has received a lottery boost to pay for new play equipment.

Families of Autistic Children working Together (FACT) has been given £4,735, which will also pay for a learning library of books, videos and information leaflets about autism and how it affects families.

FACT was set up two years ago by Caroline and Nick Heatlie-Jackson, of Quaker Lane, Chapels, Darwen, whose seven-year-old daughter Natasha is autistic, and Christine and Gian Dillon, of Tippet Close, Blackburn, who have two autistic children, Simon and Nicola.

Dawn Newsham, of Holme Street, Cotton Tree, Colne, and Dawn Moore, of Greenhead Avenue, Little Harwood, are also involved with the group.

Caroline said that before the grant the group had to beg and borrow equipment from White Ash special needs school in Oswaldtwistle, and Blackamoor special needs school in Blackburn, as well as Blackburn with Darwen Council. She said: "We were ecstatic when we heard we'd been given the grant. It's going to make a big difference to us, and we will be able to use the new equipment during our monthly meetings."

FACT offers help and advice on all aspects of autism, and also has access to other support groups.

Activities are arranged for the children and their families during the school holidays, as well as swimming sessions, outings, and Christmas parties.

Autism is a lifelong disability which disrupts the development of social and communication skills.

It is a complex condition, believed to be caused by organic brain damage and affects four times as many girls as boys.

FACT holds meetings on the first Saturday of the month at the Central Methodist Church, King Street, Great Harwood.

For more information contact Caroline or Nick on 01254 760078 or Christine on 01254 694641.

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