In this edition of Compass Conversations, Senior Consultant Dominic O’Malley and Andy Munyimi sat down with Alison Love, Transformation Lead for the National Autistic Society (NAS) in Scotland, to talk about person-centred services, recruiting in rural communities, and the organisation’s priorities for the years ahead.
Alison was appointed to her role through Compass Associates. The conversation took place during a visit to the NAS services at Catrine Bank and Daldorch House in East Ayrshire, which support individuals with complex and varied needs.
“What’s most important is that these services are rooted in dignity, choice, and consistency.”
What drew you to join the National Autistic Society?
“I’m Alison Love, and I currently serve as Transformation Lead for the National Autistic Society in Scotland. My role focuses on driving strategic change across our services, ensuring they are person-centred, sustainable, and aligned with best practice.
What drew me to NAS was the organisation’s deep commitment to empowering autistic individuals and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful transformation in a sector I care deeply about. Scotland’s unique landscape of services and communities presents both challenges and opportunities, and I was excited to be part of shaping that journey.”
You were appointed into this role through Compass Associates. How did you find the recruitment process?
“The recruitment process with Compass Associates was both professional and supportive. What stood out most was the clarity of communication and the genuine interest in ensuring the role was the right fit – not just for NAS, but for me personally.
The team took time to understand my values and experience, and they were proactive in keeping me informed throughout. That level of engagement made the transition into the role feel seamless and well-considered.”
Alison Love
Transformation Lead
National Autistic Society Scotland
What is most important about the way NAS services in East Ayrshire and Glasgow enhance people’s lives?
“What’s most important is that these services are rooted in dignity, choice, and consistency. Supporting individuals with complex needs requires not just care and behavioural expertise, but a deep understanding of each person’s preferences, communication style, and aspirations. The teams in East Ayrshire and Glasgow work hard to create environments where people feel safe, respected, and empowered – and that’s what truly enhances quality of life.”
How do you attract and retain high-quality staff in rural locations such as Mauchline?
“It’s a delicate balance. We need to be creative in how we attract talent – whether that’s through flexible working arrangements, or showcasing the unique benefits of working in rural communities. At the same time, investing in local recruitment is essential for sustainability. That means building relationships with local colleges, offering career pathways, and ensuring our culture is inclusive and supportive so that people want to stay and grow with us.”
What are the key priorities for the National Autistic Society in Scotland over the coming years?
“At the National Autistic Society, our key priorities for the coming years include strengthening workforce resilience, embedding trauma-informed and person-led approaches, and ensuring our services remain financially sustainable while delivering high-quality outcomes. We also need to continue advocating for autistic people at policy level and ensuring their voices shape the future of support in Scotland. Innovation, collaboration, and inclusion will be central to everything we do.”
Behind the scenes at Catrine Bank and Daldorch House
As part of our ongoing recruitment partnership with NAS, Dominic and Andy spent time on site with Alison and the wider team.
“Andy Munyimi and I had the privilege of touring Catrine Bank and Daldorch House as part of our ongoing support with recruitment. We met with Alison, Service Managers, Team Leaders and staff to gain a deeper understanding of the service, their plans, and the culture that makes NAS such a unique place to work. These insights are invaluable in helping us attract people who will be the right cultural fit and thrive in the environment.”
“We also rolled up our sleeves, quite literally. Armed with wellies and power tools, we joined in horticultural activities, helping to clear and refresh a beautiful garden space in the pouring rain. It was a rewarding change from office life, and a reminder of the importance of contributing in ways that directly benefit residents, staff, and the wider community who are proud to have the service on their doorstep. I think we’re part of the Maintenance Team now!”
Dominic O’Malley, Senior Consultant, Scotland
Looking for recruitment support in adult care?
At Compass Associates, we take the time to understand the services we recruit for, including visiting them in person, so we can find people who are the right cultural fit as well as the right fit for the role. Our complex care recruitment specialists support providers across Scotland and the UK, from rural services to city-based teams.
Get in touch to discuss how we can support your organisation.
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