On Monday, 9th June, staff at Cherry Orchard Youth & Family Centre took part in an important Autism Awareness Training session delivered by AsIAm, Ireland’s national autism charity. The session was a valuable opportunity for our team to deepen their understanding of autism and learn how to better support autistic young people and families in our community.

This training is part of our wider commitment to becoming a certified autism-friendly centre. In May 2025, we completed a full Centre-wide assessment focused on making our physical space and services more inclusive and accessible for autistic people. We are proud to be working alongside Neuro Vibe Tribe in their mission to achieve autism-friendly town status for Ballyfermot and Cherry Orchard — a distinction currently held by only two towns in Ireland.

What We Learned

The session explored a wide range of important topics, including:

  • 🧠 What is Autism & Neurodiversity?
  • 💬 Myths & Strengths
  • 🌈 Autistic Characteristics
  • 🚧 Barriers to Inclusion for Autistic People
  • 🧘 Mental Health & Autism
  • 💪 Strengths-Based Approaches
  • 🛠️ AsIAm Supports & Services

We were reminded that becoming an inclusive organisation isn’t just about policies — it’s about daily actions, awareness, and listening.

Why It Matters

As a youth and family centre, we work with young people every day — and we know that choice is crucial for a young person. It fosters a sense of autonomy, independence, and personal development. Choice supports every aspect of a young person’s growth: cognitive, social, emotional, and physical. By understanding autism and adopting inclusive practices, we ensure all young people have access to meaningful choices in safe, welcoming spaces.

Keep Learning: Free Resources

We’re grateful to AsIAm for delivering this training and for providing the following useful tools for anyone who wants to continue learning:

🔗 AsIAm Resource Library
A collection of materials and toolkits that expand on what was covered in the session.

🎥 AsIAm YouTube Channel
Browse free webinars on topics like sensory needs, inclusive environments, and autism supports.


By continuing our learning, adapting our practices, and listening to autistic voices, we aim to make our Centre — and our wider community — more inclusive, respectful, and empowering for everyone.

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