Service for adults with autism in the Highlands welcomes lifeline funding boost
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Highland One Stop Shop for adults with autism has received much-needed support from the Scottish Government.
The service based in Inverness and run by Autism Initiatives says it can now plan ahead after getting a grant from the Scottish Government’s Wellbeing and Resilience Fund.
The money, plus donations raised locally by supporters and by their fundraisers through trusts, means they are close to the amount needed to fund the service until March 2021.
A spokeswoman for Autism Initiatives said: “These funds, along with the financial commitment made by the Autism Initiatives Group, are allowing them to continue to operate and provide essential support to autistic people in Highland, who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
“Without the support and contact from the Highland One Stop Shop team, hundreds of local autistic people would have endured additional disadvantages.”
A range of their services are being provided remotely including one-to-one appointments, group activities, learning and development.
When it has been critical, workers have been meeting people in person while adhering to coronavirus-related guidelines.
The Highland One Stop Shop team have also been supporting people who are shielding by helping with shopping and/or collection of medications.
Regional MSP Edward Mountain described the funding boost as excellent news.
“It couldn’t be a more important time to ensure this vital service continues and no-one is left behind,” he said.
Autism Initiatives Scotland is continuing to fundraise for Highland One Stop Shop for 2020/21.
To help email fundraising@autisminitiatives.org
