Aberlour services in Fife achieve autism accreditatIon

Aberlour has achieved a respected accreditation for two of its disability services in Fife.

Aberlour Options – Fife, which provides respite breaks for families from two specialist children’s houses in the area, has been accredited by the National Autistic Society (NAS).

The accreditation recognises excellent standards of service provision for people with autism and Asperger syndrome.

Aberlour’s services – one in Collydean, Glenrothes, and the other in Kingseat, Dunfermline, underwent a three-day review by NAS.

The review team found that not only did the services met 100% of their standards, they even exceeded 20% of them.

Jenny Paterson, director of the National Autistic Society Scotland, said: “I would like to congratulate Aberlour for really going above and beyond to achieve our Autism Accreditation.

“The charity’s team in Fife has shown a great commitment to delivering excellent services for children with autism and their families.”

Aberlour Options – Fife helps families by providing short breaks for children and young people with learning disabilities, including Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

Short respite breaks help all the family – by keeping a child safe and supported in ‘home from home’ environment where they can take part in fun activities and see their friends.

Meanwhile it allow parents to have a rest from their dual roles as carers, giving them a chance to recharge their batteries and spend time with their other children.

Aberlour Options – Fife also provides outreach support, working in family homes to help create the best possible environment for children and young people.

Jacqui Kirk, service manager, said: “I am exceptionally delighted to receive the fantastic news that our services have been accredited for the support they offer to children and young people with autism, and their families.

“Families spoke to the review team about our positive approach and commitment to working together with other agencies, to get the best possible outcomes for the children and families we support.

“One mum described how much it had helped her while planning the care for her child, to have a meeting in her home with a social worker, NHS Fife and Aberlour all there to help and support her.

“This joined up approach is indicative of the ways in which we’re getting it right for families in Fife, and I am so proud of my teams who have worked hard to get this ‘gold standard’ approval through accreditation.”

This is the latest achievement for Aberlour, which has already received a Quality Award from the Scottish Mentoring Network, and Investors in Volunteering status this year.

The charity launched its ‘Getting It Right’ campaign this month, to raise funds to help more children and families across Scotland.