Cash boost for Keynsham-based charity that support families affected by autism

Keynsham-based charity Butterflies Haven, which supports families with children who are on the autism spectrum, has been given a grant of nearly £4,500 so that it can expand its service to meet local demand.

Bath & North East Somerset Keynsham councillors Alan Hale and Marie Longstaff used part of their Initiative Fund, which empowers members to respond quickly to local community needs where a small amount of financial support can make a big difference.

They have also joined the organisation, which meets at St Francis' Church in Warwick Road, in calling for more people to volunteer to help even more children and families.

Cllr Hale (Con, Keynsham South) said, "Butterflies Haven provides an essential service for families of young people with autism. They offer high quality advice and support which I am aware reduces the feeling of isolation and loneliness. I'm very pleased to be using part of the fund to help expand their service."

Cllr Longstaff (Con, Keynsham East) said: "I hope that local people will see the excellent service that Butterflies Haven provide and are encouraged to volunteer their time to help provide the service for more people in the future."

Butterflies Haven has been running for a number of years, providing support to parents and carers in the B&NES area, as well as in neighbouring Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

Founder Trish Williams said: "This money will enable us to cover the additional costs of running an expanded group and provide a support service for the siblings of children somewhere on the autistic spectrum, including trips and activities.

"We are now keen to build upon this investment by asking more people to come forward and volunteer for us. This would allow us to help many more families and children."