DIFFICULTIES in coping with autistic children are being addressed by the only university course of its kind in the North-East.

Northumbria University, in Newcastle, is running a specialist course to give people the confidence and ability to understand the special needs of children and adults with the condition.

Many parents feel let down and alone as they try to cope with their autistic child's symptoms, which can include lack of social skills, little or no flexibility of thought, and poor communication.

Devoted mother Helen Rogan was driven to jump to her death from Hownsgill Viaduct, near Consett, also taking the life of her 11-year-old autistic son, Mark.

At her inquest in January, it was suggested Ms Rogan harboured fears Mark would be taken from her as he grew bigger and stronger.

A report commissioned into the circumstances by the Durham Area Child Protection Committee, published last week, said a multi-agency task force should be created to ensure adequate provision for autistic children in the future.

The Education Studies in Autism course at Northumbria was set up in response to the increasing number of children diagnosed with the illness in the region.

Nurses and support workers have already signed up, as well as parents and teachers.

Course leader Lynne Moxon said study begins with a basic understanding of autism, how it appears in different individuals and how to cope with young sufferers through school and into adulthood.

Ms Moxon said: "People gain confidence in their ability to work with children and adults with autism and up-to-date information in working with this group."

Headteacher of Mount Pleasant Primary School, in Darlington, Debra de Muschamp, is in her second year of the course.

She said: "In Darlington we have a strategy for inclusion for children, such as those with autism, who can benefit from a mainstream school but need extra support.

"This course has been immensely valuable in giving me the confidence to deal with these children and understand their behaviour and needs."

The postgraduate course leads to a certificate after year one, a diploma after the second year and a masters degree in the third year.

For more details about the course contact Gillian Fraser on 0191-215-6468.