Spectrum Stories
Autism NI support autistic people and their families through a range of different services. We are sharing their stories and experiences of life on the spectrum.
Steven’s Story
Steven is a recently diagnosed autistic adult from Newtownabbey and has got involved with our campaign this World Autism Acceptance Month.
“Autism acceptance to me means being taken seriously, even if my traits aren’t as prominent as others.”
Evren’s Story
Evren is an autistic young person from Belfast, and has got involved with our campaign this World Autism Acceptance Month
“Autism acceptance to me means I can be myself, and I don't need to hide the things that make me, me.”
Ella’s Story
Ella is an autistic adult and has got involved with our campaign this World Autism Acceptance Month
“There’s not just one typical autistic person, we’re all very individual people and have different needs.”
Conor’s Story
Conor is an autistic young person and has got involved with our campaign this World Autism Acceptance Week
“Autism acceptance to me means that people understand and accept autism and all its forms.”
TORI AND MEGAN’S STORY
Tori has an autistic brother called Daire, and as a family they are members of Autism NI.
“Two and a half years ago my brother Daire was diagnosed with autism. We are so thankful for all the resources and help and advice that Autism NI sent out to my family.”
ISLA’S STORY
Isla is autistic, and attends the North Belfast Support Group along with her Mum Alana, and their family.
“It would feel really good if more people took the time to learn about autism. I call it my superpower!”
KATHY’S STORY
Kathy is a recently diagnosed autistic woman and member of our Autistic Adults Peer Network.
“Autism NI is one of the best organisations I've ever come across. I don't know what I would do without them.”
TIM’s STORY
Tim is a recently diagnosed autistic adult from Belfast.
“I believe we are all different and everyone should be accepted for who they are.”
annie’s STORY
Annie is a volunteer for our East Belfast Support Group.
“Autism NI helped me be the parent my children needed, and the mum I always wanted to be.”
olivia’s STORY
Olivia is the lead volunteer for our Inner South Support Group.
“Volunteering has been an amazing support to me and I get to help others, it’s something that I love to do! Autism NI has been an amazing support to me and my family, and it's my way of giving back to them.”
TRACI’s STORY
Traci is a parent of an autistic child and has been supported through our Early Intervention Service.
“You have made our family’s life easier by just being there to support us, you have made such an incredible difference!”
MATTIE’S Story
Mattie is an autistic female, she is 15 years old and has been involved in our Mental Health and Autism Project.
“I found school to be challenging. I wish people could be more accepting of differences.”
BEN’s Story
Ben is a 23 year old autistic adult. He has been involved with his local Autism NI Support Group for 20 years, alongside his mum Anne Hayward.
“Sometimes I would find going to different places quite difficult, but being part of the Support Group has helped me do this.”
Fiona’s Story
Fiona is a parent of an autistic child, and a support group volunteer with Autism NI.
"When my son was diagnosed with autism, we were unsure about where to turn and felt scared for what lay ahead.”