A NORTH-EAST charity which supports people with autism has been awarded £48,200 by the Government.

Daisy Chain provides a range of services, including support and activity groups for the whole family from a 5.5 acre farm in Norton in Stockton.

The charity will use the allocation to help adults with autism acquire much-needed work experience in its charity superstore in Portrack Lane, Stockton.

The allocation, announced by Care and Support Minister, Norman Lamb is part of a total of £1.2m is being awarded to 42 pioneering projects across the country as part of the Government’s drive to improve care for people with autism.

It is estimated that more than half a million people in the UK have autism.

Mr Lamb said: “I am delighted that we have been able to contribute funding for the excellent work that these projects carry out.

“We want to ensure that young people with autism in Teeside have the right support and opportunities to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.”

Sarah Kirkman, spokeswoman for Daisy Chain, said: “We are delighted to receive this award and we are looking forward to using it to help young adults with autism gain valuable work experience at our superstore.”

Daisy Chain was founded in 2003 and aims to meet the needs of the child, parents, carers and siblings.

The charity looks after 1,400 families a year and provides services to 800 people a week.