Alton-based autism assistance dog charity Dogs for Autism has won home care provider Bluebird Care’s new £1,000 community grant.

The funding will provide a year of aftercare for a local family, including regular home visits, 24-hour emergency advice, refresher training and dog welfare support.

At the presentation, representatives of Bluebird Care met 11-year-old Jon and his assistance dog Casper, a four-year-old cavapoochon bred and trained by the charity.

Casper has made a profound difference to Jon’s life, most notably by helping him settle and stay asleep at night - previously an exhausting struggle for his family - and providing calming support for Jon in the community.

Jon's mum Kelly said: "The simple presence of a furry friend changed everything for us. Jon and Casper became inseparable, and the love they share is evident in every cuddle and every moment spent together."

Across East Hampshire, Dogs for Autism provides autism assistance dogs trained to meet the unique needs of the autistic people they support.

They help with communication, emotional regulation, safety and confidence in everyday environments, transforming the lives of the autistic people and their families.

Hilary Armour, programme director of Dogs for Autism, said: “We're thrilled Bluebird Care chose us as the winner of their grant.

“Our work is built on long-term, personalised support for each family, and this funding ensures we can continue providing essential services and aftercare to keep partnerships like Jon and Casper’s flourishing."

Bluebird Care supports people in their own homes across Alton, Petersfield, Bordon, Liphook, Liss, Havant, Waterlooville and Hayling Island.

Norman Murphy, managing director of Bluebird Care Alton, Petersfield and Havant, said: “We're incredibly proud to award our community grant to Dogs for Autism as the difference they make to families is extraordinary.

“Meeting Jon and Casper showed us just how transformative this support is, and we’re delighted to help sustain this life-changing partnership.”