Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland (A-ND) and Scottish Autism have announced they are to merge.

The move will “expand and strengthen support for autistic and neurodivergent people, their families and communities across” Scotland, said the charities.

“By sharing their best practice and strengths, the charities aim not only to sustain critical services but also to challenge dated models of care and support,” they said in a statement announcing the move.

“This partnership will ensure that services are designed with the people they support, rooted in local communities and responsive to the unique needs of individuals and families.”

According to latest documents filed with charity regulator OSCR, A-ND’s income during 2023 was £910,599 and it spent £845,750.

Meanwhile, Scottish Autism’s income during 2024 was £50.3m, and its spending was £37.7m.

Scottish Autism chief executive Dorry McLaughlin said: “We have had a long-standing relationship with A-ND North Scotland and following discussions at senior level we each felt that a merger was the logical step for our charities to take was to merge.

“Having previously delivered services in this part of Scotland we are looking forward to being present in the region and helping to deliver support to autistic people and their families.”

A-ND chief executive Billy Alexander added: “This merger not only secures the sustainability of our services in the north of Scotland, but it also unlocks the potential to expand our shared vision nationally."

---