A CHARITY which promotes social inclusion among people who have autism spectrum conditions has received a welcome financial boost to keep running its service based in Barrow.

Autism Unite is the latest recipient of a £1,000 donation from the Lake District Farmers Armstrong Family Charitable Fund.

The funding was accepted by the charity's treasurer, Kirsten Miller-Kirkpatrick, and Ross Blackley, who attends Autism Unite's monthly Let's Meet Events and has helped fundraise for the charity.

The charity meets at the Best Life Building, in Duke Street, and offers activities, support and information for adults on the autism spectrum, their family and friends.

APPLY for a grant from the Lake District Farmers Armstrong Charitable Trust here

Its mission is to improve the lives of people with autism, and improve awareness and understanding.

Autism Unite is led by adults on the spectrum and exists to provide vital support as there is no support services provided by the NHS or local authority for adults on the spectrum over 25 and under 50.

Mrs Miller-Kirkpatrick said the charity is grateful to have received the donation as it is looking at funding streams to keep the service running.

She said; "We are very pleased as a charity to receive the funding."

Mrs Miller-Kirkpatrick said they are hoping to organise a group trip to Holker Chilli Fest in September and other activities for its members.

Mr Blackley, 21, of Barrow, said the service has been of great benefit to him.

He said: "I have grown in confidence."

The Lake District Farmers Armstrong Family Charitable Fund entry form

The next Let's Meet Event will be held on August 22. The charity can be contacted on 01229 811278.

The money donated through the Lake District Farmers Armstrong Family Charitable Fund was raised at the annual celebrity chef event hosted and sponsored by Clarence House Country Hotel and Restaurant in Dalton.

The donations are presented by The North-West Evening Mail. Editor James Higgins said: "Every month it is a delight to meet the recipients of the latest £1,000 donation.

"Their stories are always very different, but each and every one of the people I have met have been positive and brimming with courage.

"It was a pleasure to hand over the money to Autism Unite and I'm sure it will be used well towards their continued success."