Perth Autism Support (PAS) has been awarded more than £45,500 as part of £400,000 of funding to raise societal understanding of autism.
The charity is one of only nine groups in Scotland to receive a share of the funding from philanthropy organisation, Inspire Scotland and the Scottish government.
The aim of the funding is to assist autistic individuals live active and independent lives, through making employment and community participation more accessible.
It also aims to give the wider community a better understanding of autism.
Chief Executive Officer of PAS, Angie Ferguson said: “For us, it was amazing. It’s quite a big deal for us.
“It is a really great way to raise awareness of what we do. It is significant because it is allowing us that wider community engagement.”
Ms Ferguson also highlighted that for many people with autism, certain tasks can be challenging.
She said: “Doing something as simple as shopping can be a challenge for anyone with autism and helping retailers understand what it’s like for them is important.
“It’s about helping the retail sector understand the needs of autistic individuals.”
The new funding saw a huge amount of interest from both national and local groups, having been almost four times oversubscribed.
The decision-making process took an inclusive approach, with autistic individuals having had an input in deciding which groups should receive a share of the funding.
Autistic Advisory Forums were held all over Scotland in which autistic people spoke about which projects they expected to have the greatest impact.
Minister for Mental Health, Claire Haughey spoke of the importance of having an inclusive society.
She said: “We want Scotland to be an inclusive place in which autistic people can play a full role.
“This funding will enable third sector organisations to improve the understanding of autism throughout society.
“We are absolutely committed to changing attitudes and highlighting the positive contributions that autistic people can make.
“Autistic people have been at the heart of the decision-making process.”
Ms Ferguson echoed the need for inclusion in helping autistic individuals.
On PAS having received funding, she said: “It is a brilliant opportunity to carry out our ethos and give [service users] meaningful inclusion.”
