Olivia's Story

After receiving our child's diagnosis, we felt frightened and lonely, we had to juggle work, thoughts and fears over our child’s future, and we had to manage school and what worked best for our family. I remember phoning the Autism NI Helpline back in early 2019 in tears as I was having a lot of worries. I still remember the relief I got on that phone call. It was amazing and it was great to have someone listen and give me advice.
After discussing options available and getting information about Autism NI’s support groups, I started volunteering for Autism NI within my own parent support group and I now manage their Inner South Parent Group. We have a Facebook page and WhatsApp group where I post information and advice every day, and we meet monthly to catch up and share our worries, but also the good times as well.
I never want another Mum or Dad to feel as lost and lonely as I did, and I want them to know they can join our group and community of parents. All I want is to be part of building an inclusive community that help, advice and support each other. 
Autism NI has been an amazing support to me and my family, and it's my way of giving back to them. Volunteering has been an amazing support to me I get to help others, it’s something I love to do. I would say get involved in your local community, look for support, it's on your doorstep you just need to ask the right people and Autism NI Is the first phone call I would make.