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HOME > WHAT WE DO

Waterford: An Autism Friendly City

The Autism Friendly Waterford initiative was launched in April 2023 at the Tower Hotel with over 200 in attendance.

Addressing the gathering, the Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr John O’Leary said this initiative “will help overcome barriers and bring great benefits to the city”.

Waterford has already been voted the best place to live in Ireland. This, he added, would be another feather in our cap if we became the first Autism Friendly City in Ireland with Waterford leading the way in creating a truly inclusive society.

Dick White from AsIAm, gave a brief overview of the programme. David Galvin, a teacher from the ASD unit in St. Paul’s Secondary School, spoke of the gaps in the education system that need to be addressed. He also outlined the wonderful work that is being done in St. Paul’s, not only to cater for autistic students, but also to create a culture of tolerance and acceptance of diversity amongst the school population.  Amanda Fox from the Cara Autism Support Service in the National Learning Network, spoke of her own late diagnosis and how she organised a party to celebrate it and to help her son come to terms with his diagnosis.

Maolíosa Ní Chléírigh, Tish Holton, Deborah Gray and Frances Jacob explained their vision of a three year programme, with businesses and public services being asked to take measures to become autism friendly by undergoing staff training, providing sensory accommodations and giving employment, where appropriate to autistic people.  80% of autistic people are underemployed because the system does not cater for them.

The event was sponsored by Healthy Ireland and Waterford Lions Club, with the support of WLR and the initiative is being rolled out in partnership with Waterford City & County Council and Waterford Chamber.

How to become an Autism Friendly Organisation

1. Nominate a Champion

Nominate one Champion* in your organisation or if you are a large organisation, one per department.

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2. Sign Up for Training

Training is in two stages, first 'Understanding Autism for Community & Voluntary Organisations' and second, 'Autism Friendly Towns.

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3. Commit to Employment

We hope to generate more opportunities for employment by work placements and paid positions to enable people with autism to live independent lives.

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4. Make Environmental Accommodations

We will provide online information packs giving a list of ways to improve access for Autistic people to be fully included in their community.

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Sensory Hub Use, How it Works +
Disclaimer Form

PARENT / GUARDIAN & CHILD

Purpose of the Sensory Hub:

The Sensory Hub is a small, shared space designed to support children’s regulation, relaxation, and sensory engagement. It may include sensory equipment or materials intended to promote calm, focus, and wellbeing.

Purpose of the Sensory Hub

The Sensory Hub is a small, shared space designed to support children’s regulation, relaxation, and sensory engagement. It may include sensory equipment or materials intended to promote calm, focus, and wellbeing.

Parent / Guardian Disclaimer and Acknowledgement  

By agreeing to the terms below, I confirm that I am the parent or legal guardian of the child using the Sensory Hub and acknowledge and agree to the following:

1. Voluntary Participation: My child’s use of the Sensory Hub is voluntary.

2. Parental Responsibility: I understand that my child uses the Sensory Hub at their own risk, taking into account their individual needs and abilities. No smoking, vaping, eating or drinking.

3. Supervision: I understand that appropriate supervision is required at all times, either by a parent/guardian.

4. Time and Appropriate Use of Equipment: I agree that my child will use all equipment and materials as intended. 20 minutes is the time limit of each visit and access is on the hour and half hour.

5. Limitation of Liability: To the fullest extent permitted by law, the organisation, its staff, supervisors, and volunteers shall not be held liable for injury, loss, or damage arising from normal use or misuse of the Sensory Hub.

6. Behaviour and Safety: I understand that access may be withdrawn if my child’s behaviour poses a risk to themselves, others, or the equipment.