Broadcaster and author, Stuart Cosgrove, has officially launched the new Ardencraig service which will be operated by Scottish Autism.

Located in Castlemilk, Glasgow, this day opportunity will support a number of autistic individuals to develop skills across a wide range of activities.  

Funding of over £30,000, which will support the refurbishment and improve the facilities at the service, has been sourced from a variety of events and donors, including an Ardencraig family fun day, the annual Scottish Autism Golf Day sponsored by SG Pro Cleaning, and fundraising by corporate partner, Blythswood Square Hotel. The charity hopes to raise a further £28,000 to enhance the service for the supported individuals.

Commenting on the launch, Scottish Autism Regional Manager Paul Macarthur said: 

"The time and effort required to develop and launch a service is often difficult for people to fully understand, and it is testament to the hard work and dedication of the Scottish Autism team that we are now able to launch this service. 

"We are grateful to Stuart Cosgrove, a great friend to the charity, for giving his time to officially launch Ardencraig. It is an exciting new chapter, and will be of huge benefit to the autistic individuals who access the service. 

"We continue to try to raise the remaining funds to enable us to fully realise the vision for the service, by enhancing the amenities available to the individuals we support, and we thank those who have so generously supported us up to now." 

A relative of a supported individual who attends Ardencraig service said:
 
"The care and support my relative receives is second to none, it vastly improves his quality of life. We would struggle severely without it."

Stuart Cosgrove, journalist, writer and BBC Scotland Broadcaster commented: 

"Autism can be a challenge for kids and adults and improving facilities and launching creative learning environments is vital. 

"I hope Ardencraig is a huge success and becomes a well-loved place for young people to build skills and friendships."