A UNIQUE family centre has been launched to support children with autism.

Halton Autistic Family Support Group will open their new facility at 9-11 High Street, Runcorn, in January, 2014.

Ciaran Shanahan the charity’s development manager, said: “It will be the first time there is a dedicated autusm centre in Halton for families.

“The key outcome will be that the quality of life will be vastly improved for over 100 families in Halton covering at least 300 people directly and many more indirectly.

“There will be less isolation, stress, depression and family breakdowns and increased confidence, self-esteem, community access and family empowerment.”

Dad-of-two Ciaran, aged 60, and his wife, Margie, aged 52, from Greenhouse Farm, Runcorn, founded the charity 12 years ago to seek help for their autistic son, Sean, aged 27.

The drop in centre will offer information, advice and advocacy as well as training and seminars.

Fundraising events will be arranged to supplement income from their charity shop which opened in September.

The charity is looking for financial help towards the cost of rent, gas, electricity, water, telephone and internet charges.

Carly Ryan, TV's autism superstar joined Sean Shanahan, HAFS first member to cut a ribbon and open the centre.

To contact HAFS, e-mail contact@hafs.org.uk or call their helpline on 01928 711412.