AsIAm Calls for €2.094 Billion Boost to Social Welfare Supports to Tackle Disability Poverty and Inequality.
AsIAm, Ireland’s Autism Charity, has today published its Pre-Budget Submission 2026, urging Government to take decisive action to tackle the poverty, inequality, and lack of support experienced by Autistic people across the country.
This submission comes at a pivotal moment—the first budget since the Government committed to key Autism initiatives in the Programme for Government, and the second since the rollout of the Autism Innovation Strategy. AsIAm is urging Government leaders to seize this critical opportunity to move beyond rhetoric and deliver real change.
“While there have been positive developments, we are still far from a society where Autistic people have an equal chance to live, work, and thrive,” said Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm.
“Budget 2026 must confront the uncomfortable reality that our systems are failing Autistic people—from year-long waits for services to social exclusion and financial strain. The reality is that being Disabled significantly increases your risk of poverty, with families facing substantial out-of-pocket costs just to access the basics. These are not just statistics—they are daily barriers to dignity, equality, and full participation.”
Key Recommendations for Budget 2026
AsIAm’s submission outlines three core areas for urgent action:
1. Tackling Poverty
• A €2.094 billion increase in social protection expenditure.
• A 10% increase in Disability, Carers, and Domiciliary Care Allowances.
• Introduction of a €55 weekly Cost of Disability payment.
2. Expanding Autism-Specific Supports
• €9 million investment in regional Autism One-Stop Shops.
• Funding for essential communication devices and assistive technology.
• A national public awareness campaign on Autism inclusion.
3. Delivering on Government Commitments
• Full legislation and resourcing for the Autism Innovation Strategy.
• A publicly funded assessment and support pathway for Autistic adults.
• Expansion of inclusive education and therapeutic services.
AsIAm’s recommendations are based on robust data from its Same Chance Report 2025, which highlights deep and ongoing inequalities:
• 84% of Autistic children wait more than a year for support from their Children’s Disability Network Team (CDNT);
• 79% of families incur significant additional costs due to Autism;
• 70% of respondents do not believe the education system is inclusive;
• 91% say being Autistic is a barrier to being accepted or making friends.
“Autistic people continue to face long waiting lists, inadequate services, and structural barriers to participation,” said Adam Harris. “Budget 2026 must move beyond promises and deliver tangible investment in equality, accessibility, and opportunity.”
All costings were prepared in consultation with the Parliamentary Budget Office unless otherwise stated.
You can view AsIAm's Pre-Budget Submission HERE.
