Anglia region at Persimmon has stepped in to help a charity that works with those with autism as they prepare to move to a new location.

Sunbeams Play Centre in Gapton Hall Lane, Great Yarmouth works with children, teenagers and adults living with autism while also supporting their families.

They run play sessions and parenting support sessions for younger children, and life skills sessions to help young adults as they strive for independence including cooking and financial workshops.

Meanwhile the late diagnosis group caters for adults who may not have recognised that they have autism until later in life and are now navigating that journey.

The charity’s unique approach has proved so successful that they have outgrown their current facility and are now preparing to move toa two-storey detached building close by that offers them the space to create designated spaces for different groups, better catering for their needs.

The building has been secured through fundraising and a mortgage but the charity needed help furnishing the rooms and ensuring the outside play area was safe and secure for youngsters.

They applied to our Community Champions fund and were rewarded with a £4,000 donation to help fund the move.

Sue Carr, Manager and Support Worker, said: “We are most grateful for this donation and the fact it will make our transition to our new home that little smoother. Thank you to Persimmon for helping us to help the children, families and adults who benefit from our services.”

Debi Sherman, Head of Planning, and Charlotte Cunningham, Sales Manager, visited the charity to hear about their work and present a cheque.

Debi said: “At Persimmon we are proud to support good causes like Sunbeams and help create a lasting legacy within the communities in which we are building. It is a privilege to be able to play a role in their journey as they move to their new facility and extend their services to even more families in Great Yarmouth, and right across the Anglia region.”

Cllr Graham Plant, Ward Member for Bradwell North and Deputy Leader of Great Yarmouth Borough Council, said: “The donation from Persimmon Homes will go a long way in making the new Sunbeams centre ready for their members to enjoy safely.

“I would like to personally thank Persimmon for supporting such a worthy cause, and doing so much locally for our community that often goes unseen.”