Bidford Women's Institute has praised the "life-changing" work of a charity that provides assistance dogs for people with disabilities.

The charity learned about the work of Dogs for Good at its September meeting.

Ann Prosser from the charity gave a talk on the impact the dogs have on the lives of both adults and children with disabilities, including autism and dementia.

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The Banbury-based charity trains dogs to provide practical support, such as helping with dressing, opening and closing doors, and even putting rubbish in the bin.

The dogs also help to boost the independence and confidence of individuals, benefitting their families as a whole.

The talk highlighted how autism assistance dogs can transform the lives of affected families.

The dogs create a safe environment for autistic children, have a calming effect, and help to reduce stress and anxiety in unfamiliar surroundings.

Ms Prosser was accompanied by one of the charity's socialisers, and her dog Ash.

They explained how puppies are selected for training from the litter produced by the charity's breeding programme.

Usually Labradors and golden retrievers, the puppies begin their training at home with their socialiser, learning their name and basic commands.

At around 18 months old, they go to the training centre, where trainers teach them the skills needed to assist people with disabilities.

Despite being unable to fulfil all applications, the charity has helped around 70 families with assistance dogs this year.

It also runs community dog sessions and family dog workshops.

More information can be found at dogsforgood.org.