Scottish Autism is planning to open a new residential service in Alloa for adults with autism.

The charity has purchased the former Kincraigs house and plans to adapt the property into three one-bedroom flats and three two-bedroom homes, with one of the flats to be used for respite use.

The property will be all on one level with private accommodation and communal social areas. Enlarged door openings and en-suite shower rooms are just some of the adaptations that will be made. There is also a large mature garden which we are hoping to transform for use by all residents.

Having already invested in the property, Scottish Autism is looking for support to raise additional funds to put towards the costs of upgrading the interior and outside areas of the residence.

The charity is hoping to raise £200,000 to purchase furnishings and fittings and provide further upgrades.

Felicity Lister, Scottish Autism’s regional manager for Central Scotland, said: “The investment in this property signals our commitment to supporting individuals with autism through the whole life journey which means ensuring that the service and accommodation we provide meets their needs as they change over time.

“We aim to open the service next year and are already in discussion with a number of local authorities across Scotland about how we can support them within this new project.”

Angela Steele, Senior Autism Practitioner at Scottish Autism, added: “As we design the new accommodation, we will be looking to create an environment that will be suitable for individuals as they get older when they may be faced with challenging health conditions and mobility issues as well as their autism.

“Enabling independence and ensuring people don’t become socially isolated is paramount as well as maintaining people’s dignity into old age.”

You can make a donation online or send a cheque payable to ‘Scottish Autism’ for the attention of Fundraising to Scottish Autism, Hilton House, Whins Road, Alloa Business Park, Alloa FK10 3SA.

It’s hoped the facility will be open to service users in the first half of next year.