AsIAm, Ireland’s National Autism Charity, was proud to represent our community in Ireland at the 13th Autism-Europe International Congress in Krakow, Poland from the 7th-9th October. This year’s theme, ‘A Happy Journey Through Life,’ highlights the importance of measuring autistic wellbeing throughout their lifetime.
Held every three years, the Congress gathers autistic advocates, researchers, family members and policy members from across the world to share their knowledge and experience. As the first since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, Autism-Europe took steps to ensure this year is a fully hybrid Congress. This allowed community members to attend in-person in Krakow or view the weekend’s events online.
To learn more about the congress please click here
Topics of Discussion Include:
- Supporting Communication Development
- Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Gender Identity
- Adult Wellbeing and Self-Advocacy
- Children and Adults with High Support Needs
- Advances in Neuroscience
- Supporting Autistic Pupils and Teachers in School
- Understanding and Accommodating Sensory Difference
A number of AsIAm team members spoke at the congress to share their experiences throughout the weekend. Representatives from the Community Support and Training teams outlined their projects, goals and outcomes to the community.
CEO and Founder Adam Harris delivered the Congress’ closing address, inviting the community to take part in the 2025 Autism-Europe International Congress, which AsIAm will host in Dublin!
Adam Harris
AsIAm CEO and Founder Adam Harris chaired a discussion on Adult Outcomes featuring Hilde Geurts, Ida Tymina and Manna Alma. He also gave a talk on enhancing participation for autistic adults.
Fiona Ferris
Deputy CEO and Head of Training Fiona Ferrris took part iin a discussion on Autistic Flourishing with Kinga Dzika and Jakub Oblizajek. They discussed social development, mental health and seeking employment
Niamh Mellerick
Family Support Manager Niamh Mellerick presented a poster outlining the Autism Information Line, the next step in providing direct information and support to community members nationwide.
Zarah Doyle
Training Manager Zarah Doyle presented posters on the Bridge Forward Programme and the Autism Friendly Schools Initiative. These training projects allowed AsIAm to support 218 children and over 200 schools respectively.
Other Irish speakers attended the conference to present their research, some of which was conducted in partnership with AsIAm.
- Mary Doherty- Founder of 'Autistic Doctors International' presenting research on barriers to healthcare in autistic adults
- Katie Cremin- Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy in Trinity College Dublin presenting research on Project ALLY
- Rachel O'Connor- Clinical Psychologist from Adult Autism Practice presenting research on autistic mental health and wellbeing
Watch this video of the Congress' highlights!
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