MESSENGER backed charity Hearts and Minds Challenge has helped to launch a campaign to highlight the problems faced by children with autism in mainstream schools.

The initiative, developed with Autism in Mind (AIM) is aimed at teachers, pupils and leaders of community groups and sports clubs.

The Bubble Day pack aims to teach people about the issues faced by youngsters in an easy and engaging way.

Ian McGrath, founder of Hearts and Minds Challenge said: “School fund has been stripped back in recent years, adding extra pressure to those professionals who teach autistic children in mainstream education.”

Based in Sale, Hearts and Minds Challenge is currently trying to raise £1m to build a school for children with autism - and it could be located in Trafford.

The school will initially cater for the educational needs of 25 pupils aged three to 11 and it will also provide other services like occupational and speech and language therapy.

* Anyone who would like to obtain The Bubble Day pack should visit www.Autismbubbleday.com