A DORSET mum is arranging a fundraising walk to provide respite for families with autism.

Jenny Ross’s twin boys were diagnosed at two years old with autism, leading to her setting up a support group for families in a similar situation.

Jenny said: “Life has been a massive challenge, very hard at times but amazing too. My twin boys were diagnosed at two years old with autism. The lack of support and respite had a massive effect on us as a family, feeling very isolated and alone.”

The support group called 'SPARKLE TIME' aims to give parents living with the challenges of autism somewhere they can go regularly with their whole family.

Jenny said: “Since doing the group I've realised respite and lack of support is still a massive issue.

"Parents are being told by social services they are bad parents because they are struggling with their child with autism. This breaks my heart, such lovely families that just so desperately need a break from the chaos.”

After seeing the impact that a lack of support is having on families, Jenny set up a Respite charity project. The idea is to raise money to give families that come along to SPARKLE TIME and other families, the respite and support they need.

She will be hosting their first big fundraiser, Respite Charity Walk on April 23 at 10am.

A large group of mums will be walking from Southbourne Zigzag to Boscombe Pier and back to raise money.

The group will meet at 10am at the top of the Fisherman’s Walk cliff lift for an hour's walk towards Boscombe Pier and back.

The money collected will go towards respite care for families with autism and those who attend Sparkle Time.