Cheryl is a member and volunteer with Autism NI and is involved with our Antrim Support Group.


 

I have been volunteering for just over a year alongside Kiely the Support Group Co-Ordinator at Autism NI, at the Antrim Support Group. We meet on the first Friday of every month in ASDA Café.I have three children, Harry, James and George who all have a Statement of Educational Need and felt I would have a lot of first hand knowledge and experience to share as I have ‘been there done that’.I have been a member of Autism NI since my first-born son Harry was diagnosed age 3 in 2013. I replied to email that was sent out to anyone interested in volunteering, and at the time I had just been made redundant from my part-time job so I thought it would be a great opportunity to meet and connect with other parents and carers.I am passionate about supporting the needs of both children and young people with additional needs as I feel I can offer a lot of advice and support to others on their journey from initial diagnosis, through to where to go to seek support, getting a SEN statement from the EA and what you are entitled to as a carer.To anyone thinking of volunteering, I would say go for it! If you can spare even one hour per month it is a very rewarding experience!
Cheryl, volunteer at Autism NI