Autism Support Ayrshire secures funding for three more years

The service, which received funding the from North, East and South Ayrshire health and social care partnerships, is provided by the National Autistic Society Scotland and provides advice, guidance and other supportive activities across Ayrshire for free.

Rob Holland, director of the National Autistic Society Scotland, said: "I am delighted that our Autism Support Ayrshire service has secured a further three years of funding and we thank the three Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnerships for their continued commitment to support autistic people and families locally.

"The Ayrshire service plays an important role in providing much needed free to access information, advice, and guidance, and it is great to hear that the incredible work of the Ayrshire team will continue."

Autism Support Ayrshire also offers workshops for parents and carers, signposting services, and online social activities for autistic young people and adults, as well as access to other National Autistic Society Scotland programmes.

Eileen Gregg, a parent who recently used the service, said: "The individual support that I have received as a parent has helped me to feel less isolated and more confident in supporting and navigating my daughter's autism journey.

"A kind, knowledgeable, listening ear is often underrated and I am very grateful to know there is someone at the end of the phone or email to help and guide us."

David Campbell, the Neurodevelopmental programme lead for NHS Ayrshire & Arran, said the service is an integral part of the wider neurodevelopmental support pathway across Ayrshire.

He said: "It is an excellent resource for individuals, families and professionals to go to for a vast range of information and guidance relating to autism.

"We are delighted to be able to continue our partnership work with Autism Support Ayrshire."

For support, individuals can contact the service by calling 07500 974323 or emailing AyrshireOss@nas.org.uk.