A BURNHAM mother is holding an afternoon of children’s fun to help raise awareness for autism and other similar conditions.

Kas Drewett is hosting the event at the Seagull Inn in Brean so that families and carers for children with learning difficulties can go along and enjoy a day with others in a similar situation.

Two years ago Kas’s seven-yearson, Callum, was diagnosed with a rare condition called XYY Syndrome, meaning that he has an extra copy of the Y chromosome in his cells.

Callum’s condition affects around one in every 1,000 males and presents itself differently in each case but emotional, behavioural and learning difficulties are all common symptoms.

Kas told the Weekly News: “We really just want to raise as much awareness and funds as we can while also letting people in the same situation know that there are others willing to offer support.

“We know it can be difficult.

“Caring for Callum, who also has autism, means that even something simple like just going to the supermarket can be an ordeal.

“I need to have him in a harness to stop him running off or causing damage.

“His little sister, Ellie-Mae, helps him as much as she can and sticks up for him when he’s being bullied but we do find it tough.”

Because Callum’s condition is so rare Kas admits to feeling isolated and feels that creating a support network with other families in similar situations would be a huge benefit.

She said: “As far as we know Callum’s the only boy in the area with the condition and other people don’t really understand how it affects him.

“I don’t really get invited round to friends anymore and it’d just be nice to talk to other people that know more or less what we’re going through.”

Kas hopes the fundraiser can become a yearly gathering where families can bring their children without having to worry.

She said: “We’re having it in the afternoon so hopefully it will mean kids can come and just have fun, plus the parents can come along and not worry about the stares or the comments that you often get when you’re out in public.”

The children’s fun event will be held at the Seagull Inn, Brean, on Saturday (tomorrow) from 2pm-5pm with children’s entertainers including a magician.

All proceeds from ticket sales will go toward National Autism Society and the Taunton-based Escape Support Group, which provides support for families caring for children with autism.

Tickets cost £3 on the door or at 07970-348628.