A CHARITY supporting people with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) has officially opened in Ayr.

The charity, Oshay’s, provides support, advice and guidance to parents and carers of children and young adults who are affected by the condition. The organisation was founded by Maryellen and Billy McPhail, who adopted three children, with FASD.

It officially opened earlier this month on Glenmuir Place in Ayr, after months of hard work leading up to the opening.

Speaking about the opening, Maryellen McPhail from Oshay’s said: “I would urge anyone who needs our help to get in touch, especially if you believe your child has FASD. Look out for the signs; confrontation, lack of remorse or memory problems. These are just some of the characteristics.

“It can be easy for society to demonise mothers with a FASD baby. When pregnant, it is important the mum feels like she can be honest about her alcohol use. If it’s an addiction it is not easy to stop. We must remove the stigma for those seeking help.”

MSP, Siobhian Brown was on hand at the official opening.

She added: “Before meeting Maryelen and Paula I knew very little about FASD. However I’m now determined to highlight the work Oshay’s do, in the hope it will encourage the Scottish Government, to put the right legislation in place, which will give parents, carers, doctors, teachers, and employers the right tools to support children and adults with FASD.

“After speaking with experts in the field it’s apparent that very often the condition is misdiagnosed as ADHD, autism or other mental health disorders.

“It’s important we bring this issue to the forefront now. It’s also clear to me there’s a huge stigma attached to the condition.” Very often women don’t realise they are pregnant in the early weeks, and they aren’t aware of the risks to their baby.

“There is still much work to be done but The Scottish Government has taken considerable action to raise awareness of the dangers of drinking while pregnant and to train health practitioners on how to help women.

“I wish Oshay’s every happiness in their new home and continued success for the future.”

There is more information on FASD at https://www.oshaysfasd.org/