We are thrilled to share that The Yard is set to receive up to £2 million in future funding, thanks to a commitment from First Minister Humza Yousaf. This significant support will enable us to continue and expand our vital work with disabled children, young people, and their families.
During his visit to The Yard’s head office in Edinburgh, the First Minister met with children and their families, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact of our adventure play facilities and comprehensive support services.
The funding, subject to the outcome of the Scottish Budget process, will be provided over the next three financial years. First Minister Humza Yousaf stated, “I am absolutely committed to improving outcomes for disabled children and their families across Scotland. Visiting The Yard has given me a chance to see their outstanding work first-hand and hear more about the support being provided by the charity.
“I was extremely impressed with the flexible and creative ways in which The Yard are offering services and support to disabled young people and their families, many of whom I know are facing additional and significant challenges.”
Humza Yousaf, First Minister
I sincerely hope that this vital funding will enable The Yard to grow their services and offer support to more families of young disabled children across Scotland. I look forward to continuing to engage with The Yard in all of their family support centres in Edinburgh, Fife, and Dundee.”
This announcement follows a campaign led by Dunfermline dad Lawrence Cowan and his four-year-old daughter Eilish. Eilish, who has been attending The Yard since last year, is one of approximately 200 children in the world with a genetic abnormality in a gene called TUBA1A, which affects her ability to walk and her vision. She also has a learning disability.
Lawrence, whose campaign ‘Our Kids Won’t Wait’ garnered over 2,000 signatures and cross-party political support, said, “This funding will be transformational. It means that more disabled children will have the chance to be celebrated for who they are, build their confidence, and find a place to belong. We really appreciate the First Minister coming and spending so much time with us. Eilish was really excited to meet him. She said it made her feel proud.”
Chief Executive of The Yard, Celine Sinclair, added, “We are absolutely thrilled that the First Minister has committed to working with us to grow our services in Scotland. This announcement is transformational for disabled children and their families, and we look forward to working with our partners to ensure that our children get the support they need to get the best start in life and thrive.”
This funding represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide inclusive and supportive environments for children and young people with additional support needs. We are excited about the opportunities this will bring to extend our reach and impact across Scotland.
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