Manx Telecom is helping Autism In Mann by sponsoring the charity’s telephone helpline for the next year. The line is operated from 9am to 6pm seven days a week and provides a vital link for the group which offers help and advice to the parents and carers of anyone with autism. Breda Craine, Chairman of Autism in Mann, said the sponsorship from Manx Telecom was wonderful news. She said: “The Autism in Mann mobile telephone has been a point of contact for parents for some years now. The number is in the phone book under "Useful numbers". It may be that someone phones up needing information or that they just need to talk to someone who understands what it's like for a family caring for someone with autism. Autism in Mann is a parent support group run by parents for parents and so it is always a parent who answers the phone. We are in our 20th year this year and are thrilled at the thoughtfulness of Manx Telecom. Andrew Honour, Manx Telecom Commercial Manager, said: “We are delighted to support Autism In Mann and make a contribution to helping the charity continue its good work. Autism In Mann began in 1992 when two parents of children with autism - June Murphy and Sue Feeney - founded the Isle of Man Autistic Support Group. Some years later the charity became Autism in Mann, a registered charity which not only provides help and support to parents and carers of those with autistic spectrum disorder, but also promotes a greater understanding of autism through information, lectures, seminars and meetings. The Autism In Mann helpline number is 480167. - ENDS -