21.11.19
National Autistic Society opens first of its kind autism centre
The National Autistic Society Northern Ireland has opened a new autism centre this week (19 Nov) to meet the needs of autistic people and their families.
TV star and mum of autistic twins, Christine McGuiness opened the first of its kind centre in Northern Ireland.
The core service of the centre is day provision for autistic adults in need of high levels of support.
Autism has an effect on people in different ways from communication to social interactions and there are around 18,000 people living with the condition in Northern Ireland.
People with autism have their own strengths and challenges, some may just need a little help in certain situations but for some, the needs can be more complex and they may require a more specialist environment to thrive in.
The centre will be haven for autistic adults to learn and strengthen their independence, there is a fitted kitchen to encourage the practice of life skills and colourful multi-sensory rooms.
Tailor-made programmes will be on offer during day provision and onsite behaviour support, speech, language and occupational therapy will be accessible for all.
The centre hopes to be a welcoming place that autistic adults can realise their full potential and socialise with others.
Shirelle Stewart, Director of the National Autistic Society Northern Ireland, said:
“We were thrilled to have Christine McGuiness open our new Autism Centre, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland. The centre has been designed with the interests and needs of autistic people at its heart.
“It will be modern, welcoming, and use technology that has been specifically designed to support autistic people.
“Having such state-of-the-art provision would not have been possible without the support of our donors. Thank you to everyone who helped us to raise an incredible £200,000 to provide the specialist equipment and create such a high-quality environment.”