National Autistic Society Northern Ireland

18/06/2026

This , we asked three of our new Young Campaigners to share why they are proud to be autistic.

Our Young Campaigners are a group of autistic young people who are passionate about creating a world that really works for autistic people. The Young Campaigners work with each other and our charity to learn more about campaigning for change, as well as sharing their experiences and consulting on our work.

17/06/2026

☀️ Summer break for our Girls Group! ☀️
Our Girls Group enjoyed their final session on 6 June and will now be taking a well earned break for the summer 🌸
Our group leader will be in touch with details of our return date, but for now, we hope you all have an amazing summer filled with fun, laughter, and sunshine 🌼💛
We can’t wait to welcome you all back to the centre again soon! ✨

16/06/2026

Last week we kicked off the first session of our Young People’s Cookery group, and what a fantastic start it was! 👩‍🍳👨‍🍳
It was lovely to see so many familiar faces back at the centre, reconnecting, having fun, and enjoying time together again.
On the menu were flatbread pizzas, and they were a huge hit all round! 🍕
We’re really looking forward to the weeks ahead, cooking, baking, and getting to know everyone even better along the way. Stay tuned for more delicious creations! ✨

15/06/2026

✨ A big welcome to Ethan! ✨
We’re delighted to have Ethan join our evening group at Carryduff. He’s already making the most of the centre’s large, open spaces and especially loves exploring and playing on the equipment in our garden 🌿☀️
It’s wonderful to see him settling in so well, we’re excited to have you with us, Ethan!

12/06/2026

Last evening was all about celebrating our incredible teams.

We were so proud to see Claire Austin, John Turner, and the Belfast Service recognised as finalists at the Northern Ireland Learning Disability and Autism Awards. Being shortlisted reflects the impact they make every day supporting autistic people. The Gala awards evening, which is part of the Care Talk Summer Awards 2026, was held last night at the Hilton Belfast.

As one colleague shared:

"They are an amazing team who consistently work together with a person‑centred approach… They truly care and go above and beyond.

Well done to everyone who attended this evening - your dedication and teamwork make a real difference. 💜

11/06/2026

When we opened our Randalstown Centre in March, it was about creating a space where autistic people and families feel understood and supported.

In this blog, Shirelle Stewart shares how the centre has been shaped directly by the voices of those who will use it – from flexible support that grows with families, to spaces designed to feel calm, safe and enabling.

Shirelle Stewart, our National Director for Northern Ireland, explains how our Randalstown Centre has been shaped by what matters most to local autistic people and their families.

10/06/2026

Meet Rory! 🌟
We’re delighted to welcome Rory to the team as our new Team Leader for National Programmes in Randalstown.
Rory brings great enthusiasm and passion to the role, and we can’t wait for you to get to know him. Take a moment to watch the video below and learn a little more about him 👇
Please join us in giving Rory a very warm welcome!

09/06/2026

✨ Celebrating Oisin ✨
This week marks Oisin’s last week with us in our Juniors Club 🥳
Oisin has been part of the National Autistic Society NI family since he was around 5 years old, taking part in many of our programmes over the years. It has been truly wonderful to watch him grow, develop and step into adulthood.
We feel so proud to have been part of his journey and are excited to see what the future holds for him.
Wishing you all the very best, Oisin, you’ll always be part of the National Autistic Society NI family!

08/06/2026

✨ Celebrating the end of our TeenLife Online sessions! ✨
On Wednesday evening, we wrapped up our latest block of Online TeenLife sessions. Joanne and Tracy thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of the parents and carers, and learning more about your young people 💬
We hope you’ve taken something positive and supportive from the past six weeks to help you along your journey.
A huge well done to each and every one of you for your commitment and for completing the TeenLife programme, you should all be incredibly proud! 👏

05/06/2026

We’re delighted to share that we will be attending this fantastic community event hosted by Ballynahinch Community Collective! 💛
Join us at this FREE information and support session. It’s a great opportunity to connect, learn, and find out more about the support available in your local area.
📅 10th June 2026
⏰ 10am – 12pm
📍 Ballynahinch Community Centre
Joanne will be there to meet families, offer guidance, and share information about our services – we’d love to see you there! 💬