Business Details
36 Years
experience
Autism Charity & Support Services in Belfast
Autism NI is Northern Ireland's longest-serving autism charity and training provider, dedicated to supporting over 35,000 autistic individuals and their families. Established in 1990, we combine three decades of experience with evidence-based, person-centred approaches to deliver life-changing services. Our mission focuses on fostering an inclusive society through tailored support, accredited training for professionals, and advocacy campaigns that shape public policy.We operate a helpline, early intervention projects, family support groups, and mental health initiatives, all informed by direct collaboration with autistic people and their caregivers. Our strategic partnerships with educational institutions, businesses, and government bodies reinforce our commitment to advancing autism understanding and accessibility across Northern Ireland.
Services
Autism Training
Family Support Groups
Helpline Services
Early Intervention
Mental Health Support
Resource Provision
Policy Campaigning
Professional Consultation
Community Education
Adult Diagnosis Support
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- 35 years of specialist autism experience since 1990
- Accredited training delivered to 3,592 people in 2024/25
- Evidence-based Early Intervention Services reaching 3,806 individuals
- Operates Northern Ireland's only autism helpline with 7,000 annual calls
- Pioneered the Autism (Amendment) Act (NI) 2022 through policy campaigns
Services
Autism Training
We deliver accredited autism training programs tailored for families, educators, and businesses. Our courses cover diagnosis processes, communication strategies, and inclusive practice frameworks. Training incorporates real-world case studies and is delivered by specialists with direct experience supporting autistic individuals across Northern Ireland.
Family Support Groups
Our local support groups provide guidance for families navigating autism challenges. Services include peer networking opportunities, expert-led workshops, and access to specialist resources. Support covers education rights, mental health considerations, and practical strategies for daily living with autism.
Helpline Services
Northern Ireland's dedicated autism helpline offers confidential guidance on diagnosis pathways, service access, and crisis management. Staffed by trained professionals, the service provides immediate support for families and professionals seeking specialist information about autism-related matters.
Early Intervention
Specialist early years programs focus on developing communication and social skills through play-based learning. Our evidence-based Keyhole Intervention approach supports children aged 2-8, with tailored strategies for families and educational settings to maximise developmental outcomes.
Policy Campaigning
We lead national campaigns for improved autism legislation and service provision. Recent achievements include the Autism (Amendment) Act (NI) 2022. Our advocacy work involves parliamentary engagement, public awareness initiatives, and collaborative projects with government agencies to enhance autism support systems.
People
Kerry Boyd
CEO
Chief Executive Officer with extensive experience in autism advocacy and charity leadership. Oversees strategic direction and service delivery across Northern Ireland. Committed to advancing autism inclusion through policy reform and community engagement initiatives.
Shirley Hall
Finance Director
Finance Director managing the charity's financial operations and sustainability. Ensures responsible stewardship of resources to maintain and expand autism support services across Northern Ireland.
Kelly Maxwell
Director of Family Support
Head of Family Support services with specialist knowledge of autism-related family needs. Develops support frameworks and coordinates local support groups to provide practical assistance for families across Northern Ireland.
Christine Kearney
Director of Development
Responsible for strategic partnerships and organisational growth. Focuses on expanding training programs and community engagement initiatives to enhance autism understanding and support networks.
Rachel Leung
Head of Fundraising and Communications
Leads fundraising campaigns and public awareness initiatives. Manages donor relations and communication strategies to promote autism acceptance and secure resources for essential support services.
Questions
What autism support services do you offer?
We provide helpline support, family groups, early intervention programs, mental health assistance, and professional training across Northern Ireland.
How can I access autism training?
Our accredited training programs are available for families, educators, and businesses through scheduled courses and bespoke organisational sessions.
Do you offer support for autistic adults?
Yes, we provide adult diagnosis assistance, peer networks, and tailored support services for autistic individuals aged 18+.
How can I donate to your charity?
Donations can be made online through our website, with options for single or regular contributions to support specific programs.
What policy changes have you achieved?
We successfully campaigned for the Autism (Amendment) Act (NI) 2022 and continue advocating for improved autism legislation.
How do I join your support groups?
Local family support groups are accessible through our website registration, offering peer support and expert-led sessions.
Videos