Local charity condemn Aberdeenshire council following irreconcilable differences with funding risk

Official Statement of withdrawal from WFWB Fund partnership with Aberdeenshire Council  

Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland (A-ND) regrets to announce our withdrawal from the Aberdeenshire Council’s Whole Family Wellbeing Fund and the associated project with Aberdeenshire Council.   

This decision follows extensive deliberation by our board and leadership team in light of the Council's recent response to our concerns and the broader challenges encountered during this collaboration. It is a decision we have not taken lightly, as it impacts the families and communities we are deeply committed to serving.   

While we value the principles of partnership and inclusion that such Scottish Government funding provided to Aberdeenshire Council aims to achieve, irreconcilable differences have arisen between A-ND and Aberdeenshire Council regarding the administration and oversight of this fund. Despite our best efforts to engage constructively, we believe the current circumstances pose an unacceptable level of financial risk to our organisation, limiting our ability to sustain this project without compromising our broader mission and services.   

Our priority remains the children and families we support. We are committed to honouring all existing commitments through to 31st December 2024, ensuring families have sufficient time to transition to alternative support services, if available, or link with Aberdeenshire Council to discuss next steps.   

A-ND will continue to advocate for meaningful and equitable collaboration between third-sector organisations and local authorities, ensuring vital services remain accessible to neurodiverse individuals and their families. We remain open to constructive dialogue with Aberdeenshire Council to address the concerns raised and explore opportunities for rebuilding a positive and productive partnership in 2025 and beyond.   

We appreciate the understanding and support of the families, staff, and stakeholders affected by this decision and assure you of our ongoing dedication to delivering high-quality services across the region.