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About Us

About Us

Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland (A-ND) was founded in 1987 by a small group of parents & professionals (Rose Clayton MBE), who were concerned for the needs of autistic individuals. Previously known as Grampian Autistic Society, we were the first organisation of our kind in the region to offer help & support to autistic individuals, their families & wider support networks.

 

Beginning as a support group, we have slowly expanded over time, firstly as a parent-run organisation & later constituted into a charity in 1989. As of May 2023, we have a staff team of 50 people & provide direct, ongoing support & services to 150 individuals & their families throughout Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray & North Scotland, as well as providing support groups in person & online.

Our Strategic Objectives

Our 4 key Strategic Objectives at A-ND are WISE;

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Whole Person: "we will provide opportunities to autistic & neurodivergent people to support them have a fulfilled & happy life".

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Influencing: "we will ensure the rights of autistic & neurodivergent people & their loved ones are understood, upheld & respected".

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Society, Community & Family: "we will offer opportunities to the wider society, local communities & to loved ones of autistic & neurodivergent people to support them have a fulfilled & happy life". 

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Employability: "we will provide opportunities to autistic & neurodivergent people to support them meet their unique & individual potential". 

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To help us realise our WISE objectives, we require Resources - WISER.  

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Our Vision

Autism & Neurodiversity; a world of fulfilling and happy lives for those who think differently.

 

Our Mission

Creating opportunities for autistic and neurodivergent people, and their networks, to realise their full potential and transform the world we live in.

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Our Values

  • WE ARE INNOVATORS - We are not afraid to try new ideas or approaches. We welcome change and creativity. 

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  • WE ARE HUMAN RIGHTS LED - We will protect and honour the human rights of all people.  Treating all with respect, dignity and compassion. 

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  • WE ARE THOUGHT LEADERS - We are ideas people.  We nurture the skills, knowledge and ideas of our staff, families, fellow professionals and most importantly those we support to help inform, develop and improve our practice. 

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  • WE VALUE RELATIONSHIPS - We are person centred in our approach.  Relationships are key to what we do. 

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  • WE ARE INFLUENCERS - We influence policy and procedure to improve access to support and services, including education and jobs.  We strive to build awareness and understanding about our organisation, autism and neurodiversity. 

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  • WE ARE PASSIONATE - We believe every child, young person and adult has the potential to shine bright.  We believe magic can be created every day. 

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