We are delighted to share that the pioneering partnership between the Scottish Prison Service and Scottish Autism has been recognised at this years SCVO (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations) Scottish Charity Awards!
Over the course of the last year, Scottish Autism have delivered two support programmes for fathers of autistic children within HMP Barlinnie.
The partnership was first established when Amy McLachlan, then a Family Contact Officer in Barlinnie, observed that there were several autistic children visiting their dads in prison.
She also knew from speaking with the dads that many felt they had very little understanding or knowledge of autism, and they wanted to know more about how best to support their child and partner.
Amy decided to contact Scottish Autism’s Advice Line to see what support the organisation could provide.
Scottish Autism have a programme that they deliver in the community called ‘Get Set 4 Autism’. It provides support to parents and carers of autistic children and young people across Scotland up to the age of 18 years old. It is available at any point in a family's journey, whether that be prior to assessment and to whose children are on a waiting list for an autism assessment, but also post assessment support following an autism diagnosis.
The overarching aims are to promote a greater understanding of autism, improve communication between parents and professionals, and ultimately equip parents and carers with the information and practical skills they need to enable them to better support their child moving forwards.
