Type of service: Advocacy (general), Play and leisure, Local groups, Social groups, Social skills

Service URL: http://www.autismnetworkni.org.uk

We are a charity set up by parents /carers and those with Aspergers syndrome In 2003. We offer: telephone helpline; parent support groups; social groups for children, young people and adults; and factsheets on a number of issues such as educational needs, benefits etc. Parent groups meet in Carrickfergus, Craigavon and Dungannon. Social groups for children/young people: Carrickfergus, which runs on a fortnightly basis for ages 6-16 years of age; Craigavon, Laurencetown, which is run on a monthly basis for ages 9-16 years of age; Bangor, monthly and for ages 6 to 11 years; and Dungannon, which is run on a monthly basis for ages 10-16 years of age. The adult social groups (18 years and upwards) meet on a monthly basis in Laurencetown and Carrickfergus. The Teen and Twenties (13 to 29 years) group also meets monthly. We also provide advocacy service in matters relating to education, police matters, social care/child protection and benefits.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult , Child , Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of an adult, Partner

Specialisms: Exclusively autism specific, Staff and volunteers get autism awareness training