North West Autism NI (PAPA)
The NW Branch is open to any parent in the region who has a child with ASD. We also have a large membership hailing from the areas of Limavady, Derry and Strabane. Our members are parents with children of all ages, from 18 months to 35 plus, and their children, some of whom attend and contribute to the meetings.
Our get-togethers take place on the third Tuesday of the month in the Education Unit of Foyle Hospice. The monthly theme alternates between a talk from an invited speaker and a Parents’ Forum. In the past we have had speakers on Befriending, Housing, Benefits, courses and self-help programmes.
The meetings usually begin with information and on the evenings when we have a forum, parents share their experience and problems with others in a similar situation. Whether your toddler has just been diagnosed and you are trying to come to terms with the news, or you are seeking information on how to access employment opportunities for an adult with the condition, chances are that you will meet someone who has dealt with a similar problem. The meeting also offers access to a lending library for paid-up members and refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere.
We run a number of functions, mainly the annual dance and the summer scheme outings. Last September we hosted a major conference at the City Hotel, where the speakers were Jerry Newport and Eustacia Cutler (mother of the famous Temple Grandin).
Committee members also pressed for better services through their attendance at the Autism West Consortium which culminated in the formulation of the WHSSB Strategy Document for Autism. We were also enthusiastic campaigners on the day of the Walk for Autism in Stormont.
A number of our members have also taken advantage of the courses run by Autism NI such as the Family, Sibling and Grandparents’ workshops, and behaviour management training.
Our branch goes from strength to strength. In the future we hope to get ongoing activites for older children off the ground. Watch this space!
