CATRINE’S Daldorch House School for children with autism is to end its educational services, leading to possible redundancies for staff.

The National Autistic Society Scotland (NASS), who manage Daldorch House, is transforming it into a new supported living service for autistic adults.

They have taken the decision to stop operating as a school due to the growing age of the students being supported.

The ending of education provision may result in redundancies for staff, with education services planned to end in August 2020.

The new service, due for completion in December, 2020, will be for autistic adults with significant and complex support needs and will include adapted housing for up to 11 adults, with access to outdoor space. There will be 24-hour care and support from specialist staff.

The move will allow the charity to continue supporting many of the pupils currently at Daldorch House School. However, some will be too young for the new service and so NASS are working with local authorities to find alternative provisions.

Nick Ward, Director of NASS said: “Over the years many young autistic people have benefited greatly from their time at Daldorch House School, gaining a valuable education and learning important independent living skills and I pay tribute to all the staff who have worked hard over the years.

“It has been a difficult decision but we are excited about this new chapter in Ayrshire, which will reflect the changing needs of the autistic people we currently support.

“The new service will provide adapted accommodation and specialist support to autistic adults with significant and complex needs, helping them to lead happy, fulfilled and independent lives. The new service will be a welcome addition to our volunteer-led branches in Ayrshire.

“We will be working hard throughout the next few months to make sure the small number of people too young for the new adult service can find alternative support and look forward to completing the transformation towards the end of this year.”

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