PORTFIELD School has received a £1,000 donation from JP Morgan towards occupational therapy equipment.

The school provides education and residential options for children between the ages of three and 19 with severe autism.

Headteacher Tyler Collins said his aim is for children to be in an environment in which they feel most comfortable.

The money was put towards 12 sensory boxes and teacher Sue Collins said: “We have been able to purchase a number of boxes which make such a difference to the students.

“Bright colours, soft surfaces and interactive equipment help in the student’s development.”

Mary Barrett, a member of the JP Morgan Community Relations Committee said: “I was able to see first-hand the impact the equipment is having at Portfield School and learn more about the important work they do”. Autism Wessex is the regional charity which provides high quality specialist services for people affected by autism and other learning difficulties across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Somerset.

The charity operates Portfield School, has seven residential properties across the region, offers a free information and advice service, provides outreach community support and is celebrating its 45th year.

Kim Darbyshire, corporate partnerships officer for Autism Wessex added: “We are delighted that the funds donated by JP Morgan are clearly making a positive difference to the lives of our students.

“It is wonderful when we can demonstrate the impact don-ations have made and in this instance it is apparent to all that the funding has been used to enhance and improve the quality services the charity offers for the benefit of the individuals we support.”