Celebrating 80 Years of Caring at the Scottish Parliament
To mark eight decades of growth and community, we gathered at the Scottish Parliament for a special anniversary reception hosted by Willie Rennie MSP. The evening brought together the very people who define our organisation: the individuals we support, their families, dedicated colleagues, loyal supporters, and parliamentarians from across Scotland.
Voices at the Heart of Holyrood
Rather than simply reflecting on history, the reception placed the voices and lived experiences of the people we support right at centre stage.
The evening opened with a warm welcome from Willie Rennie MSP, followed by speeches from Capability Scotland Chief Executive Brian Logan and individuals supported across our services, who shared what community and choice mean to them firsthand. Professor Sandy Cameron, Chair of our Board of Trustees, closed the formal remarks with a vote of thanks before guests watched a specially commissioned anniversary film charting our 80-year journey.
Willie Rennie MSP reflected on the significance of the gathering:
"Capability Scotland has made an important contribution to the lives of disabled people and their families across Scotland over the past 80 years. Bringing those voices into the Scottish Parliament was a fitting way to mark such a significant anniversary and to learn more about the work being carried out across Scotland today."
From Westerlea to Nationwide Impact
Our story began in 1946 with our earliest work at Westerlea School in Murrayfield, Edinburgh. In the decades since, both society’s understanding of disability and our own services have evolved dramatically.
Today, Capability Scotland supports nearly 1,000 disabled children and adults nationwide. Our services span education, residential care, day opportunities, and community support—giving individuals the tools to build relationships, gain key life skills, and take full control over their own lives.
A few notable highlights of our work today include:
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Corseford College (Renfrewshire): Scotland’s first and only dedicated further education college created specifically for young adults with complex needs.
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Our Inclusive Community Project (Perth): An exemplar modern development that will replace our long-standing Upper Springland facility, setting a new benchmark for accessible, integrated community living.
Looking to the Future
While the models of care and facilities have transformed since 1946, our core purpose has never wavered.
"Reaching our 80th anniversary is an opportunity to recognise everything that has been achieved by the remarkable people who make up Capability Scotland," said Brian Logan, Chief Executive.
"From the people we support and their families to our employees, volunteers, fundraisers, and partners, generations of people have played their part in shaping the organisation we are today. We are proud of that legacy, but there is so much more we want to achieve. Our focus now is on taking that experience and ambition into the future."
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Holyrood, and to all the supporters, staff, and families who have stood with us over the past 80 years. Here’s to shaping the next chapter together.
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