THE Alloa-based charity Scottish Autism has been awarded a three-star recognised for excellence (R4E) Award by Quality Scotland in recognition of its commitment to achieving organisational excellence and its dedication towards continuous improvements.

The R4E Award scheme is acknowledged all over Europe for organisations that demonstrate high levels of performance against the nine criteria of the comprehensive EFQM Excellence Model.

It is designed to embed a culture of excellence for organisations which are focused on achieving the highest standards in their commitment towards people, suppliers and their wider stakeholder community.

The award for Scottish Autism follows a visit earlier this year by a Quality Scotland assessment team, made up of people from a variety of business backgrounds, where they met with members of the charity’s staff and examined a number of its core services.

Commenting on the Award, Scottish Autism CEO Alan Somerville said: “I congratulate all my colleagues for their efforts in helping securing this latest award.

“The drive for continuous improvement is the heart of Scottish Autism as we strive for excellence both as an employer and in the services we provide.

“In 2011 we adopted PSIF — the Public Service Improvement Framework — as a means of formalising our quality initiatives and aligning it with that of many local authorities.

“In addition to the R4E Award, Quality Scotland has also presented us with the committed to excellence award for our efforts in continually improving the running of our organisation and the services provided for individuals with autism and their families.”