A SPECIALIST charity is working to a shoe retailer to help them train staff and create a personalised service for families affected by autism.

Daisy Chain has joined forces Charles Clinkard to help them develop an autism-friendly environment.

The company sent all their branch managers to the charity for training before rolling it out to all their sales consultants.

Parents can now make an appointment in advance and advise staff of their individual needs.

Parent Nichola Binks, from Stockton, took her son Thomas, four, to get his shoes fitted. Thomas is on the waiting list to undergo diagnosis for autism spectrum disorder and shoe fitting is one of the things he struggles to cope with.

She said: ‘We had previously had a bad experience with another retailer so it was hard to get Thomas into a shoe shop to get his shoes fitted. It was fantastic to have the personal service and understanding because it meant I was able to prepare Thomas in advance and go in at a quiet time."

For information about the charity contact Daisy Chain on 01642-531248.