Autism charity launches toy bank for children

The bank can be found in the charity's Sunderland shop

An autism charity has set up a toy bank for local families run by some of the adults it supports.

The North East Autism Society (NEAS) opened the bank in its Sunderland shop last month.

"There's just a great need at the moment, [many] are in such a difficult financial situation," said the charity's marketing manager, Lisa Taylor.

The bank also benefitted those running the service, she said, with many finding it "really meaningful".

The bank offered toys free of charge, said Ms Taylor.

"You don't really need to make an appointment or anything," she said. "The shop can provide the opportunity for some children who have grown out of their toys to swap them for others."

The toys have been cleaned, given new batteries and restored in such a way that children will enjoy playing with them, she added.

The bank also helped the adults with autism who ran the service, said Ms Taylor.

"Many may find communication and social interaction really difficult," she said.

"But by managing this service and meeting new people who come into the shop – it's really helped them interact with others and meet new people."