Background

Grampian Autistic Society came into being in 1988. Its initial aims were:

• to bring parents together and establish a support network
• to draw attention to the fragmentation of services then available to children and families affected by an Autistic Spectrum Disorder
• to inform and heighten professional and public awareness of the nature and extent of such conditions.

At each stage in its development to date, Grampian Autistic Society has sought to reflect its philosophy, values and aims. These include being a parent-led organisation which seeks to ensure that:

• the nature of Autistic Spectrum Disorders is reflected in the planning and provision of services relevant to affected individuals and their families.
• services are constructed appropriately and are responsive to changes in need
• the pattern of service provision facilitates integration, continuity of care and ongoing support.

The involvement of Grampian Autistic Society with individuals and families has been characterised by another key principle, namely that the ways in which care and support are offered are as important as the forms of service provided. This approach by Grampian Autistic Society has been described as “a commitment to develop relationship-based practice”.

Vision

" To ensure people with autism enjoy the same rights, freedoms, responsibilities and quality of life as we do. "

Mission

" To ensure the provision of the best possible education, care, support and opportunities for people of all ages with autism in the region formerly known as Grampian, and to support families, to improve understanding of autism and to develop best practice among carers, professionals and society at large. "