Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Pat Ebbs and Alison Carter came in to the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Humberside studios to talk about how they offer help and support to families in Northern Lincolnshire where there are children with autism and aspergers syndrome.

Pat was moved to start the organisation in 2002 after some of her grandchildren showed signs of developing these conditions. Initially only a few families were involved in Magic Moments for Autistic Kids, but news of what the organisation does to help families spread and Pat and Alison are now involved in supporting many families, particularly across Northern Lincolnshire.

Pat and Alison explain during their interview the difficulties that children and their families face. Children with these conditions develop obsessional behaviour. Alison tells how her son Philip, would get her to write notices to put up all over the house. His toy cars had to be laid out a certain way to placate him. Pat says children respond to the world in a very different way to most people. They have difficulty isolating what's going on around them and can't shut out distractions to focus on a particular activity, be it listening or communicating with others.

Magic Moments for Autistic Kids is a charity that raises money to help children go on organised trips and provide them with equipment to help them deal with their condition. Some of the children have been to Euro Disney and gone on many trips across the country with the rest of their families.

The pair highlighted the strain that families face and in their experience say that many couples separate, with one of the partners sometimes unable to cope.

People who become members of the organisation are asked to help with fundraising. Many events are organised to raise money and it's not only the parents who become involved many of the children are encouraged to take part too.

Just before Christmas 2007, a variety show featuring some of the children in addition to many grown-up performers took place at The House on Brumby Wood Lane in support of the charity. In addition to singing there was belly dancing, trick cycling and comedy sketches.

Amongst the activities being planned for next year is a performance of 'Grease' which it's hoped will take place in Grimsby providing a suitable venue can be found to host the event.

Pat welcomes enquires about the organisation from people all over the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Humberside area and she can be reached by 'phone, morning and early afternoon: Tel: 01724 337493.