A TEAM of autism ambassadors has been appointed to bring about changes in the workplace to support people with invisible disabilities.

Ryan Wilson, aged eight, and Charlie Mumford, aged 10, will be visiting businesses across Bury as part of a new scheme called Friendly Aware Bury (F.A.B).

They are part of a team of six ambassadors who have been chosen by Buddy's for Children with Autism, based in The Rock, to raise awareness and "help people feel accepted."

The initiative, which is due to be rolled out in the next fortnight, aims to encourage businesses and services to support people with autism, epilepsy, dementia, mental health conditions and other invisible disabilities.

Jane Lord, who runs Buddy's for Children with Autism, said: "F.A.B is a project I have been working on for 18 months and we are finally at the stage where we can roll it out.

"It is designed to assist vulnerable people who may get lost, confused, stressed or anxious.

"The scheme aims to promote the understanding of invisible disabilities.

"It is not just about raising awareness, it is about acceptance."

The ambassadors will visit businesses to evaluate how their surroundings affect them and how aware staff are to their needs.

Suggestions for changes in the workplace include lowering lighting, changing the volume of music, and taking part in training.

Among them is Gorsefield Primary School pupil Ryan, who was diagnosed with autism when he was three years old, and has received support from Buddy's.

He said: "I'm really happy and excited to be an Autism Ambassador.

"I went on stage at assembly and Mr Herbert and Mrs Hodgkinson were very proud and it was my best moment ever."

Ryan was invited to speak in assembly by deputy principal and lower Key Stage 2 lead, Dave Herbert and Year 1 teacher Rachel Hodgkinson.

Ryan's mum, Helen Cole, said: "We are so proud of Ryan being given this role.

"It demonstrates the progress he has made from being our silent little boy, who wouldn't speak until he was three, to the confident young man he is today, who takes everything in his stride and who embraces his autism. He understands it makes him a little different but he also knows it certainly doesn't make him any less."

Ms Cole, who volunteers at Buddy's, added: "Charlie, the other young autism ambassador, has shown great determination and strength of character to overcome his difficulties. He just wants to help improve the lives of others.

"They are both extremely caring young men who will carry their responsibilities admirably."

Charlie, who has special educational needs, said: "I'm really proud to be chosen as an autism ambassador."

Two teenagers and two adults have also been appointed to the role.

Anyone with information should contact Buddy's for Children With Autism on Facebook or email buddys4children@outlook.com.