Sense Scotland

Sense Scotland is a disability services and awareness charity in Scotland, formalized in 1985. The charity’s aim is to create a supportive world for people with complex communication support needs where they can live meaningful lives and achieve their own ambitions. Services are located all over Scotland with the charity’s main resource centre and head office based in Glasgow. The charity also provides information about complex communication support needs and participates in disability rights campaigns. Sense Scotland’s work is mainly funded by Local Government through contracts for services provided. It also raises money through donations, legacies, community fundraising, events, retail and corporate partnerships.

On 11 June 2011 Sense Scotland announced that former MSP Andy Kerr had been appointed to the vacant CEO position. He took over from interim CEO Joyce Wilson who held the position after former Chief Executive Gillian Morbey OBE left to head Sense and Sense International in October 2010. Morbey has been instrumental in setting up Sense Scotland and became its first staff member in 1985. She received an OBE in 1995 for her service to the deafblind community.

In November 2011 Sense Scotland was awarded best UK health project at the National Lottery Awards, recognizing the difference that projects (co)financed by the Big Lottery Fund make to local communities, and celebrate the achievements of the people behind them.

The charity offers support services to children, young people and adults with complex communication needs throughout their lives. Sense Scotland’s services include day care, short breaks, supported living, housing support, skills development, arts and outdoor sessions and social clubs.

Sense Scotland provides information to people with complex communication support needs and their families. The charity employs family advisers who pay home visits throughout Scotland and inform people with disabilities on resources available to them. The advisers also inform people on communication development support and possible sources of funding. They also answer questions and concerns about their disability.

Core to the work of Sense Scotland is making sure the people they work with are informed of government policy and help them understand what policies mean to them. The charity is also committed to ensure the thoughts and views of people with disabilities are heard by the Scottish government.

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