Northern Ireland
An overview of our campaigns in Northern Ireland
Call for autistic children to access school if deemed in their best interest
The Department of Education issued specific guidance on the placement of vulnerable children in school on 10 April; this required children including those with additional needs to have a best interest assessment. If the outcome was that the child’s best interests would be better met in school, then a school placement should be offered.
Many families, especially those with children or young people with complex needs who required high levels of support, really suffered under lockdown. Families were expected to work, look after other children and care for their child or young person with complex needs. Services stopped overnight and the lack of routine and structure led to very distressed behaviour among many children and young people.
Therefore, we advocated on behalf of these families to the Northern Ireland Assembly, Department of Education and the Education Authority. We also supported legal action. In late June, a number of young people were offered school placements. We have since been advocating with the Assembly and via the media that special schools need to re-open on a full-time basis when schools return.
Broken promises report
In 2016, we published our Broken promises report in conjunction with Autism NI. This report analysed the impact of the 2011 Northern Ireland Autism Act, Action Plan and Strategy. Unfortunately, our research found that autistic people and their families feel that their hopes for a better future have been dashed. The Department of Health is currently consulting on what should be in a new Autism Strategy and Action Plan. We are campaigning to ensure that that the issues raised in the Broken promises report are remedied in the new Strategy and Plan.
How we work with the Northern Ireland Assembly
For many years, our charity has been rated as one of the most effective disability charities by MPs.
Find out moreCampaigns in other nations
Other ways to get involved
Sign up to campaigner updates
Stay in touch with us to find out about our latest campaigns and how you can play your part in them. We’ll update you by email on the key issues that affect autistic people and their families, and how you can help to create real change.