Clannalba services include residential, short breaks, emergency respite, specialist support and transition, all focusing on enabling individuals with autism to have positive life experiences.

Mr Mundell was welcomed by Adam Brodie, Scottish Autism’s Regional Manager, and the charity’s Director of Autism Services, Jackie Latto who gave him a tour of the facilities and an overview of the key services provided at Clannalba, located in Lamington, near Biggar.

Clannalba has operated since 1996, during which time it has helped and supported over 700 families. It offers a wide range of planned and purposeful periods of short breaks and respite for children and adults diagnosed with autism. Clannalba is also one of the few places in Scotland offering a transitional support service where young and mature adults with autism can be prepared for a more independent life.

Jackie Latto said: “We’re delighted to welcome Mr Mundell back to Clannalba.

“Clannalba is a real centre of excellence here in South Lanarkshire, supporting both children and adults with autism and helping improve their quality of life. All Scottish Autism staff receive autism specific training enabling them to deliver a high quality service that responds to the needs of service users and their families.”

David Mundell MP said: "Clannalba is a wonderful facility for young people with autism and their families. We are really lucky to have their expertise and facilities on our doorstep. Every time I visit I am impressed by the organisation’s forward looking mentality. It is great to see the positive results of the hard work they are doing to help service users to live independently within the community."

Photographs by Tina Norris