Our Story

Daisy Chain began life in 2003 as the dream of its founder, Lesley Hanson, whose son Jacob was diagnosed with autism at an early age.

Although Jacob’s condition was not severe, Lesley soon became aware of the problems faced by the parents and carers of children, who were higher on the autistic spectrum.

Lesley dreamt of a haven for children with autism, a place where they could go to experience something in life that would give them pleasure and was especially for them. The centre would include an overnight respite facility, playroom, swimming pool, sensory areas, animal barn, agricultural and horticultural opportunities and nature trails. It would also provide parents, carers and siblings with support and a resource library.

Disgruntled with the lack of facilities and services available to support families, Lesley and husband Duane set off on a quest to make her dream become a reality. After extensive fundraising the doors to Daisy Chain opened one year after her initial dream and it has continued to grow ever since.

Now nearly ten years later Daisy Chain helps more than 1000 families in the Tees Valley and is developing facilities and services all the time. Lesley died in 2004 but to ensure her dream still lives on we need your help.