History and Achievements
Autism Northern Ireland was established in 1990 to act as a catalyst for Autism awareness, enhancement of professional expertise and family support, as well as strategic service development. The Society has been involved in all major ASD strategic and research documents in Northern Ireland and has pioneered partnership-based service developments in training, early intervention, family support and support services for adults with ASD. Creative partnerships have characterised much of these achievements. The most dynamic partnership with regard to adult services is with Autism Initiatives UK. Autism NI is the largest provider of specialist ASD training in Ireland and with a membership of over 1,000 individuals it maintains a network of 17 Branches which provide family based support within local communities in Northern Ireland. Based upon the Society’s involvement in research, development of best practice models and strategic development, a political advocacy role was established. Autism NI’s role in activating the political debate on the rights of individuals with Autism began in 2002 and has achieved cross-party support for legislation for Autism. The restoration of devolved political institutions in Northern Ireland, the establishment of Celtic Nations Autism Partnership, the Atlantic Autism Alliance and the deepening links between the Autism Caucuses in Washington and Northern Ireland give cause for great optimism regarding the imminent introduction of legislation in Northern Ireland.
Vision Statement
Autism NI (PAPA) is a parent led partnership organisation having been formed to promote positive collaboration between parents, professionals and individuals with Autism to address the need for appropriate services. This partnership ethos extends to the Charity’s promotion of a multi disciplinary, cross agency response to issues such as assessment, diagnosis and intervention. The Charity’s mission to support parents and individuals with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder is core to its work and is based on individualised assessed need. The charity is committed to promoting best practice, accessible to all, irrespective of family circumstances.
Website: http://www.autismni.org/
