THOUSANDS of pounds are needed to open a second autism care home in North Yorkshire.

Clare Ballam and her husband Roy, of Sowerby, near Thirsk, have already successfully created a group home for four people with autism in their area.

They are trying to copy the Green Gables, in Thirsk, in the Scarborough area for parents struggling to cope with autistic children.

The first home opened in spring 2000. Having taken almost 11 years to achieve, the home meets standards set by social services and the health authority.

Mr and Mrs Ballam have an autistic son, Richard, and it was when they realised that there was no recognition or acceptance of autism in the county that they fought for a home to be opened.

Mrs Ballam said: "There needs to be more carers who are trained in-depth. People with autism can't be slotted anywhere. It is a unique impairment - a special need within special needs."

Plans for a second home in Scarborough are well under way, and Golden Lane Housing, a registered charity, has already pledged £16,000 towards the purchase of a suitable property. The national autistic society has also been appointed to train and select staff.

An estimated £160,000 is still needed.

Plans to open a daycare facility in the Hambleton area are also being considered. "There is an appalling lack of care and I am keen to provide a place where sufferers and their families can come, receive care and feel safe and comfortable," said Mrs Ballam.

For more information contact Clare on (01845) 523529.