Public Health Minister launches Fife Autism One Stop Shop in Dunfermline

Public Health Minister Michael Matheson has officially opened an autism One Stop Shop in Dunfermline’s Viewfield Terrace. The facility will act as an autism support and information hub for individuals, their families and professionals and will signpost people towards further support services.

The Fife One Stop Shop is the first of six of its kind to launch across Scotland, funded through the Scottish Government’s Scottish Strategy for Autism in association with Scottish Autism, the National Autistic Society and Autism Initiatives.

Mr Matheson said: “Autism impacts on the whole life experience of people with autism and their families, who may need to be supported by a wide range of services such as education, employment, housing or social care.

“I am delighted to be here today to open this, the first of six, new Autism One Stop Shops. This new service in Fife will offer people with autism and their families much needed information, advice and support before and after diagnosis.”

Speaking at the launch, Dunfermline MSP Bill Walker said: “I am very glad that Scottish Autism has launched a One Stop Shop here in Dunfermline, which will provide much needed support for people throughout Fife.

“Around one in every one-hundred people in Scotland is affected by autism, according to Scottish Autism’s figures, and the Fife One Stop Shop will make a positive difference in the lives of Fife individuals and their families.

Charlene Tait, Director of Development at Scottish Autism, said: “Our One Stop Shop requires a collaborative approach between ourselves and the local people and professionals currently working within the autism community in Fife, to help us understand the local needs and priorities.

“We will be liaising closely with the health, education and social care departments of Fife Council, as well as existing support groups and services, to understand what services are currently available so that we can advise people accordingly.

“Where possible, we will be calling on volunteers to work with us in making this an effective resource for the people of Fife.”

From left to right: Edward Fowler (One Stop Shop Manager), Eileen McCrossan (One Stop Shop Autism Advisor), Mary Hamilton (Autism Support Team Manager, Scottish Autism), Bill Walker MSP, Charlene Tait (Director of Development, Scottish Autism).