CHILDREN with autism will be able to enjoy trampolining, racquet sports, relaxation and art in Bournemouth during the summer, thanks to a grant from BBC Children in Need. The charity has donated £20,400 to social enterprise BH Live fund the sessions, which also include gym, structured play and crafts, at the Littledown Centre over the school holidays.

Aimed at young people aged between 10-18 years old, the activities will be centred on emotional and physical wellness and relationship building. Coaches will work towards helping each child realise their potential and how they can improve health and wellbeing through physical activity.

Kate Rogers, BH Live’s health and wellbeing manager, said: “With the generous support of BBC Children in Need, and all of their amazing fundraisers, we are making a difference to the lives of young people right here in Dorset.

“Over the next three years, 150 young people will be able to get the support and encouragement they need to be more active and experience the many benefits this brings.”

BH Live will work with partner organisations including BCP Council, Access Dorset and Autism Wessex to promote and encourage eligible youngsters onto the programme.

Penny Maund, senior teacher at Autism Wessex said: “This will make a huge difference to families in Dorset who tell us how difficult it can be to find activities that meet their needs during the school holidays.”

BBC Children in Need relies on the generosity and creativity of the thousands of supporters and fundraisers who raise millions of pounds for the charity every year. To date the UK public has raised more than £1 billion for children and young people facing disadvantage across the UK.

Find out more about the activity programme by contacting littledown@bhlive.org.uk