Haven Consortium hailed as ‘pivotal step forward’ for Encompass Caithness
Campaigners from Encompass Caithness say they are thrilled to be part of a new region-wide network that will “create lasting change” for young people with autism, neurodivergent conditions and additional needs.
The far north pressure group has teamed up with other organisations to form the Haven Consortium as a “united force” that will work collaboratively to seek more effective support services in the Highlands.
The Elsie Normington Foundation is partnering with Special Needs Action Project (SNAP), Thriving Families and Connecting Carers as well as Encompass Caithness with the aim of improving the lives of young people with disabilities and their families.
At a launch event in Inverness on Monday, the consortium was described as a “new chapter” for Encompass Caithness and a “ground-breaking initiative” for the groups collectively.
“The Haven Consortium represents a pivotal step forward in our mission to raise awareness of the challenges faced by autistic and ASN [additional support needs] families in the Caithness community on a much larger platform,” Encompass Caithness said in a statement.
“By joining forces with our esteemed partner charities, we now have the opportunity to leverage a wealth of resources, knowledge and expertise to improve services and support across the Highlands.
“This collaborative effort is not only about raising awareness, but also about driving meaningful positive change. By working together, the consortium will be able to attract substantial funding to support the initiatives that are essential for making a real difference in the lives of those in need.
“We are confident that the Haven Consortium will provide the resources and connections necessary to address the pressing needs of our community and beyond.
“This partnership marks a new chapter for Encompass Caithness, and we look forward to working together with our partners to create lasting change for the people and families we represent in Caithness.
“We thank Elsie Normington for this amazing opportunity and for sharing and supporting our vision. This is an exciting time for us with many doors of opportunity opening to help us in Caithness.
Elsie Normington, chairperson of the Elsie Normington Foundation, said: “The Elsie Normington Foundation recognised the fantastic work being done by the individual charities involved in the consortium and wanted to harness this and work together to make a greater impact.
“The charities involved with the consortium will work together to attract funding to effect real change in service provision for young people living with a disability and their families and carers across the Highlands.
“Our focus is on solutions and not problems, and we are very excited about this positive step in securing better outcomes for young people living with a disability in the Highlands.”
In November last year, Encompass Caithness hosted a one-stop information shop in Wick to showcase the support on offer to people with autism, neurodivergent conditions and additional needs.
That followed on from a survey run by Encompass Caithness which found that many families felt “helpless, isolated and powerless”.
The Elsie Normington Foundation was set up in May 2013 to raise funds to build the Haven Centre. The centre provides an inclusive community space for children and young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
