AN innovative training programme has been developed for parents with autistic children.

The EarlyBird programme uses group training sessions to help parents with pre-school children assist their development.

It is funded by the Government and run by Middlesbrough Primary Care Trust (PCT) and South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust's Cleveland Unit.

Speech and language therapist Lorraine Herring, from Middlesbrough PCT, and special needs teacher Carol Rose work with local families on the programme. Ms Rose said: "The course has real benefits for both the parents and their children and although EarlyBird cannot offer a cure for autism, it does offer hope.

"It boosts the parents confidence and equips them with the skills to work with their children helping them progress, communicate and interact better.

"By teaching parents to recognise problem behaviours, and providing advice on how to manage them when they do occur, the quality of life for all the family can improve."

Head of the Cleveland Unit Kate Morris said: "The remarkable effort, dedication and hard work Carol and Lorraine and the support and encouragement they provided has really made a difference and helped the families involved enormously.''

For further information contact EarlyBird at the Cleveland Unit, on (01642) 854288. The unit is based at Middlesbrough General Hospital but will soon be moving to The James Cook University Hospital.