A TILLICOULTRY man with autism has received life-changing funding to become a sports coach.

Gavin Miller, 20, works as an assistant with Coach My Sport, helping children and young people learn essential skills, thanks to support from the Independent Living Fund (ILF) Scotland.

He has proved to be reliable at work, receiving positive feedback from both parents and children.

Anthony Philips, Gavin's mentor and employer, said: "With the help of ILF Scotland's funding, Gavin has managed to develop into a super coach and fantastic young man whose future looks bright."

The ILF's Transition Fund was set up to increase community participation among young people with disabilities and to allow them to grow in confidence, supporting their independence.

The money allowed Gavin to complete an eight-week training programme with Coach My Sport.

He said: "I think the Transition Fund is a great idea, it helps you get into work and gets you started.

"It's definitely helped me get more independent, because I would not have been able to do this five years ago."

Young people between the ages of 16 and 21 living with a disability in the Wee County and beyond are encouraged to visit ilf.scot/transition-fund and apply for funding.

Peter Scott, ILF Scotland CEO, added: "The hugely positive impact the Transition Fund has had on so many young people is testament to how much this type of funding is needed in Scotland.

"It's incredible to see what a difference being able to try something new can make to a young person's confidence and independence and how it can, ultimately, improve their lives."