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REACH for Autism, based in Greenock, Inverclyde, was a beacon of hope and support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Founded by Vicki McCarthy MBE, inspired by her daughter Kira’s diagnosis of Asperger’s, the charity aimed to create an autism-friendly community in Inverclyde. Over the years, REACH provided invaluable services, including support groups, training courses, and community events, earning national recognition and engaging directly with the Scottish Government to advocate for autism awareness.
However, the unforeseen challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted REACH’s operations. The charity’s center on Ratho Street, which had been a vibrant hub for its activities, was forced to close due to lockdown restrictions and later suffered flood damage. Despite efforts to adapt and continue supporting the community through digital channels and temporary locations, the financial and logistical strains ultimately led to the difficult decision to dissolve the charity.
A Missed Opportunity?
While the pandemic undeniably posed serious challenges, it could be argued that the decision to leave the Ratho Street building may not have been the most strategic long-term choice. Though lockdowns made in-person activities impossible for a time, the pandemic was always going to be a temporary crisis. The need for autism support—particularly emotional, social, and developmental assistance—only intensified as families faced prolonged isolation and uncertainty.
REACH had cultivated a strong base of community goodwill and national recognition. That goodwill might have been leveraged to mount a stronger fight for emergency funding, partnership support, or even a local campaign to preserve the building and its services. By vacating the hub prematurely, some argue, the charity lost a key part of its identity and infrastructure—something not easily rebuilt in an already overstretched sector.
The Future of Autism Support in Inverclyde
The closure of REACH is a stark reminder of how fragile even the most respected community organizations can be in times of crisis. Nevertheless, hope endures. New initiatives, such as Your Voice’s autism support groups, are stepping up to fill the gap. But the lesson remains: spaces like Ratho Street aren’t just buildings—they are lifelines.
As we look forward, there’s a pressing need to ensure that autism support services are resilient, well-funded, and prioritized—not just in times of stability, but especially in times of crisis when vulnerable people need them most.
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