Charities cash in on autism support fund

CHARITIES in the Lothians are to receive more than £75,000 to help people with autism.

The funding from the Scottish Government will go to five organisations based in the area as part of a £13.4 million nationwide autism strategy.

Autism Initiative UK is receiving £23,393 for a project helping young adults with autism move into independent living, while IWork4Me will get £24,400 to support self-employment.

West Lothian Council will receive £14,200 for secondary children to take part in activities such as work placements and outdoor education challenges, while Barnardo’s Scotland gets £10,590.

Parents of Autistic Spectrum Disorder Adults will get £3000 for its work providing practical and emotional support to carers.

Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said: “This first package of funding will support initiatives to help people receive the support they need in a way which promotes their independence and emotional well-being, and respects their dignity.”