SETU’s campus in Wexford hosted its second annual Autism Awareness and Acceptance event at the University’s campus on Summerhill Road. The aim of the event was to increase awareness of autism among the SETU community and to identify ways to support autistic individuals, both staff and students.
This year’s event included stands from KITE, Specialisterne, and Wexford Library hosting stands, with Cottage Autism Network (CAN) and the Dreambig Foundation providing advice and support to students, staff, and other attendees. Additionally, a representative from AsIAm, Ireland’s autism charity, delivered a talk to attendees that was streamed online for those who were unable to attend in person.
Attendees had the opportunity to connect with local support resources, learn practical strategies for promoting inclusivity, and forge meaningful connections with fellow attendees. Representative from CAN, Anthony McCarthy, said of the event, “Raising awareness and having the opportunity to talk about your own experiences is great. It’s brilliant to see so many parents looking for a place for their children with ASD to be themselves." Anthony’s colleague, Katie Nolan, added, “The event fosters connection with other organisations to increase awareness and inclusivity. We even found some new volunteers for CAN through attending."
Organisations coming together
Teresa Buckley from the Dreambig Foundation commented on the importance of organisations coming together: “Forming alliances and sharing information with other organisations is so important in working towards greater awareness around neurodivergence."
Event attendee, Paul O’Brien, who works with Youth Train said, “The event was valuable in its practicality and relevance. There was great enthusiasm for the supports available and that will help organisations like Youth Train have confidence supporting young people with autism to thrive in their learning."
Event organiser, Dr Claire Butterly, Professional Practice Placement Coordinator at SETU commented, “We are delighted to host this annual Autism Awareness and Acceptance event here at SETU’s Summerhill Road campus in Wexford for the second time. It is a great opportunity for students, staff, and partner organisations from the wider community to come together to share advice and resources. All of this contributes to making the SETU community an increasingly inclusive and accepting place for autistic people. Thank you to all students and staff who took part. Special thanks to my colleagues, Katie Murphy, Education Liaison Officer, and Elaine Weldonberry, Educational Support and Inclusivity Coordinator. Sincere thanks also to Fiona O’Connor and the SATLE project for funding this event in Wexford.”
