Our Aims
When this programme first began in October 2021, our aims were small. We hoped to reduce social isolation for some autistic adults that engaged with the programme and at the very least, have a little fun! However, the autistic community in Ireland overwhelmed us with their support and engagement. We are now expanding the programme’s offerings to include educational resources, social activities and peer support functions beyond just Dublin and online spaces. These new programmes and events will be updated gradually on this webpage. Thank you so much for your continued support.
Sign Up For Events:
Dublin Based Events
Art Classes with Autistic Art Club (4 Dates)
Film
Who: All autistic adults over the age of 18.
Dates: Oct 6th (Completed) & 20th, Nov 3rd & 17th
Time: 6pm – 8pm (approx.)
Location: St. Andrew’s Resource Centre, Pearse Street
Price: Free
Who: All autistic adults over the age of 18.
Dates: TBC
Time: 6pm – 9pm (approx.)
Location: TBC
Price: Free
Online Events
Minecraft Gaming Group
Autistic Book Club
Men's Peer Support Group
Who: All autistic adults over the age of 18.
Dates: Next date: Tuesday, October 25th (continuing every second Tuesday)
Time: 6pm – 7pm (approx.)
Location: Zoom & Shared Server
Price: Free
Who: All autistic adults over the age of 18.
Dates: Next date: Wednesday 19th of October (continuing every second Wednesday)
Time: 6pm – 7pm (approx.)
Location: Zoom
Price: Free
Who: All autistic adults over the age of 18, who identify as male.
Dates: Next date: Thursday 6th of October (continuing every second Thursday)
Time: 6pm – 7pm (approx.)
Location: Zoom
Price: Free
Testimonials from Participants
Since engaging with the Adult Support and Wellbeing Programme, I feel much less isolated. I have enjoyed taking part in several courses and ongoing programmes which have really enriched my life, I have learned some new skills and found enjoyment in new practices. Also I now feel much more comfortable in myself which, as a late diagnosed adult is a huge benefit.
– Dave, 58
Before I engaged with the Adult Support and Wellbeing Programme, I was unsure how to make sense my late diagnosis. Was this a continuation of being “a fake”? Had I made it up? After the calls, and listening to others experience, I leave with a greater sense of calm about myself.
– Sarah, 48
Before I engaged with the Adult Support and Wellbeing Programme, I was overwhelmed and felt misunderstood Now, I feel like I have that extra bit of support and also as space to just be myself. It has also giving me a bit more confidence to open up to people about being autistic and it helped me come to terms with my very recent diagnosis. Thanks Jennifer and everyone in the group.
– Aisling, 33
Before I found AsIAm I felt like I was different and nobody could relate to me. Since engaging with AsIAm I have found people who experience life similar to me and have had a wonderful time sharing these similarities with others.
– Caitlin, 22
The women’s social hour is an invaluable space for autistic women to gather and “talk shop” about our experiences. It is a safe, respectful space in which we can talk and act freely.
– Méabh, 31
Before I engaged with the Adult Support and Wellbeing Programme, I was lost on how best to move forward after my diagnosis. Now, I experience a sense of community and feel understood, plus have a great deal of fun with the various groups. I’m forever grateful to AsIAm for this amazingly varied programme.
– Jennifer, 37
Please Note:
- When attending online events, there is never any expectation for our participants to have their cameras on, or contribute to the groups.
- We encourage participants to use the 'chat' feature on Zoom whenever they are not comfortable communicating verbally, but communication-based participation is not required.
- You are always welcome to have an another person attend any of the events with you, for any reason.
#SameChance Careers Clinics
In collaboration with IrishJobs, AsIAm is offering a series of classes on #SameChance Careers Clinics for autistic adults. In each rotation of classes, there are four sessions held via Zoom. Topics covered include CV and Cover Letter Prep, Interview Skills, Workplace Communication, and Self-Advocacy.
The next start date is October 10th, 2022 – via Zoom from 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM.
Please contact jennifer@asiam.ie to be added to the mailing list.
Suggestions Box
We will do our very best to get back to your suggestion or feedback as quickly as possible. Thank you for taking the time to express your thoughts with us.
Who Are We?
Please do feel free to contact me at any time. I will be happy to reply, once your query is regarding autistic adults – otherwise, I will refer you to the appropriate team. Please note that as the sole Officer for this programme, I may be delayed in replying to you due to the volume of queries.
– Jennifer O’Connor, Adult Support and Wellbeing Officer
