The Girls and Autism Project (GAP) provides specialist autism support for autistic girls aged 11-18 and their families within the Northern Trust area. The project aims to reduce barriers that autistic girls may face and help them feel more confident, connected and supported in everyday life. 

Through tailored one-to-one autism support, we work with each young person to identify their goals and provide practical strategies that promote wellbeing, independence and participation. Support may focus on areas such as:

  • Building confidence, self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.
  • Developing social connections and friendships.
  • Navigating challenges at home, school and in the community.

We can provide autism support for each participant for between 6 and 26 weeks, with programmes tailored to their individual circumstances and needs. Our aim is to provide meaningful autism support that empowers autistic girls to achieve their potential and feel valued, understood and included.

Why do we provide autism support specifically for girls?

Autistic girls can sometimes face unique challenges and may be diagnosed later than their male peers due to differences in how autism presents. In Northern Ireland, males are currently more likely to receive an autism diagnosis than females, highlighting the importance of increasing understanding and awareness of the experiences of autistic girls and young women. 

At Autism NI, we are committed to providing autism support that helps autistic girls build confidence, develop new skills and participate fully within their homes, schools and communities. We recognise that every autistic girl is unique, and our autism support services are designed to provide personalised autism support that reflects individual strengths, interests and needs.

With GAP I spent time looking at situations, removing myself and doing things that make me bloom. I have participated in groups, spoke to others and found it easier than I thought. I am now looking at joining a youth club.
Young person participating in the GAP autism support service.

Further Information

If you would like to learn more about the Girls and Autism Project or find out whether this autism support service is available to your family, please contact our team on 028 9040 1729 (Option 1) or email info@autismni.org.