Sign in Subscribe
Charities

Autism NI Celebrates 35 Years of Pioneering Autism Support in Northern Ireland

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Autism NI, a charity that has been a pioneering force in supporting autistic individuals and their families in Northern Ireland, is celebrating its 35th anniversary. Founded in 1990, the charity has had a profound impact on the lives of thousands of people, including Local Support Group Vice-Chair Anne Hayward, whose son Ben has benefited from the charity's services. Autism NI's CEO, Kerry Boyd, highlights the charity's legacy of leading the way and driving positive change, and its ongoing commitment to amplifying the voices of autistic people and empowering them to influence society.

Key Takeaways:

  • Autism NI was the first autism charity established in Northern Ireland, founded in 1990, when little was known or understood about autism.
  • The charity has been at the forefront of many "firsts" in autism support, including the successful lobby for the first autism-specific legislation for Northern Ireland, the Autism Act (NI) in 2011.
  • Autism NI's work has changed the lives of thousands of individuals, including Local Support Group Vice-Chair Anne Hayward's son Ben, who has grown in confidence and skills thanks to the charity's support.
  • The charity continues to support thousands of families and autistic people every year through vital services including a Helpline, Early Intervention Service, Autistic Adult Service, Support Group Network, Training Service, and ongoing campaigning and lobbying work.
  • Autism NI remains committed to amplifying the voices of autistic people and empowering them to influence positive change within society.

Statistics:

  • Autism NI has been supporting individuals and families for 35 years.
  • The charity has been at the forefront of autism-specific legislation in Northern Ireland, with the Autism Act (NI) 2011 being a significant milestone.
  • Over 21 years ago, Local Support Group Vice-Chair Anne Hayward received her son Ben's diagnosis and joined one of Autism NI's support groups, which has since become a lifeline for her and her son.

Sources:

  • Autism NI's CEO, Kerry Boyd.
  • Local Support Group Vice-Chair, Anne Hayward.
  • Autism NI's 35th anniversary website, www.autismni.org.

Read more