Support Groups
In Autism NI the Family Support team co-ordinate a number of different types of support groups. There are 20+ support groups based in local communities across Northern Ireland offering support to thousands of parents/carers of autistic people. We rely heavily on our support group network, which continues to be the bedrock of our service steeped in the principles of community development where volunteer parents and carers provide advice and support to other parents.
Our support group volunteers have tremendous understanding of autism and can open many doors for others. They can bring new concepts and ideas, pass and share tips and hints. They are creative and innovative meeting emerging needs with some facilitating family activities, events and summer schemes. We offer our support and guidance in bridging families to their local group.
Join our Support Group Meetings
If you are a member of one of our Support Groups and would like to sign up for their next meeting or if you are new and would like to enquire about attending a meeting, please fill in this form.
Why join a Support Group?
By joining one of Autism NI's Support Groups you will find you do not have to begin this journey on your own. You can access support pre or post diagnosis. Most groups meet monthly, parents get the chance to share worries or concerns along with experiences on what is available in your area to help your family and your autistic child.
You will get ideas and strategies for helping your child lay foundations for their future. By meeting other parents on your journey you will realise the feeling and worries you are experiencing are perfectly normal and to be expected.
Overall, our Support Groups work to meet emerging needs and raise awareness with local communities, businesses and politicians across Northern Ireland. This core area of work underpins Autism NI’s long-standing commitment to maintaining relationships with parents, carers and professionals.
By speaking to another parent who is involved you can find out what it is like at meetings, what is expected of you and what is not.
“I went along to the Support Group meeting on Wednesday night. Everyone was extremely welcoming and happy, it was lovely. I don't get out much so it was a real treat to talk to people who understand, I will definitely be a regular attendee, I also met a mum who I hadn't seen in quite a long time, and it was great to catch up” (South Belfast Support Group Attendee)