We are thrilled to share that ARGH Scotland has officially been granted charitable status as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO). Our registered charity number is SC054724 — a milestone that marks a new chapter in our development as an Autistic-led organisation.
We chose the two-tier SCIO structure to ensure that our members remain at the heart of everything we do, with full control over the direction and governance of the organisation.
This announcement comes at a particularly meaningful time: ARGH Scotland turns 20 this year. Two decades of grassroots activism, peer support, advocacy, and community-building have brought us to this moment. Becoming a SCIO is not just a legal designation — it’s a recognition of our values, our resilience, and our commitment to creating a better Scotland for Autistic people.
Why SCIO Status Matters
Becoming a SCIO gives us a stronger foundation to grow. It means:
- Legal recognition as a charity under Scottish law
- Increased transparency and accountability, which strengthens trust with funders, partners, and the public
- Access to new funding streams that were previously unavailable to us
- A formal structure that supports sustainability while preserving our grassroots ethos
Most importantly, it allows us to do more for our community — and to do it with the integrity and lived experience that have always defined ARGH Scotland.
Autistic-Led, Always
ARGH Scotland was founded by Autistic people, for Autistic people. That hasn’t changed — and never will.
Our SCIO status affirms our identity as an Autistic-led organisation. It means our leadership, decision-making, and priorities continue to be shaped by lived experience. We believe that Autistic people are the best experts on Autistic lives, and our work reflects that belief in everything we do.
Whether we’re running support groups, advocating for policy change, or challenging stereotypes, our approach is grounded in neurodivergent wisdom, mutual care, and community solidarity.
Thank You to Our Supporters
This milestone belongs to all of us.
To our members, committee (now trustees), allies, and friends: thank you. Your belief in ARGH Scotland — your time, energy, donations, and encouragement — have made this possible. You’ve helped us grow from a small grassroots group into a recognised charity with a bold vision for the future.
Looking Ahead
For us becoming a SCIO is not the end — it’s a beginning.
We’re entering this new phase with excitement and a deep sense of responsibility. Our community faces real challenges: barriers to diagnosis, discrimination, poverty, isolation, and systemic neglect. But we also see strength, creativity, and solidarity.
ARGH Scotland will continue to be a space where Autistic people are heard, respected, and empowered. We’ll keep building a Scotland where neurodivergent lives are valued — not just accommodated, but celebrated.
Stay Connected
We’ll be sharing updates on our activities, events, and opportunities to get involved. Follow us on social media, sign up for our newsletter, and reach out if you’d like to collaborate.
Together, we’re creating something powerful. Thank you for being part of it.