Public Health Minister launches One Stop Shop for Autism Community in Fife
The project is part of a nationwide initiative funded through the Scottish Government’s Autism Strategy. The Fife One Stop Shop is one of six of its kind being funded and operated across the country, in association with three partner organisations, Scottish Autism, the National Autistic Society and Autism Initiatives.
The Fife One Stop Shop is based in Viewfield Terrace in Dunfermline and will be accessible to people throughout Fife requiring its services. It will act as an information hub for individuals, families and professionals, allowing Scottish Autism to share its knowledge and experience of autism, provide pre and post diagnosis advice and signpost people to appropriate services in the area.
(L-R) Charlene Tait, Director of Development, Edward Fowler, One Stop Shop Manager, Michael Matheson MSP, Minister for Public Health and Eileen McCrossan, One Stop Shop Autism Advisor
Speaking at the opening of the One Stop Shop, Minister for Public Health, Michael Matheson MSP said: "Autism impacts on the whole life experience of people with autism and their families, who may need to be supported by a wide range of services such as education, employment, housing or social care.
"I am delighted to be here today to open this, the first of six, new Autism One Stop Shops. This new service in Fife will offer people with autism and their families much needed information, advice and support before and after diagnosis."
Charlene Tait, Director of Development at Scottish Autism, said: “Our One Stop Shop requires a collaborative approach between ourselves and the local people and professionals currently working within the autism community in Fife to help us understand the local needs and priorities.
“We will be liaising closely with the health, education and social work departments of Fife Council as well as existing support groups and services to understand what services are currently available so that we can advise people accordingly.
“Where possible we will be calling on volunteers to work with us in making this an effective resource for the people of Fife.”
(L-R) Edward Fowler, One Stop Shop Manager, Michael Matheson MSP and Eileen McCrossan, One Stop Shop Autism Advisor
Image by Tina Norris
