Parents and carers of autistic people came together at Northern Regional College’s Ballymena campus on Friday 23rd October for a conference combining practical advice on accessing support with a focus on their own wellbeing.
‘Supporting Autism Together’ was delivered jointly by Northern Regional College, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Education Authority, highlighting the importance of organisations working together to support autistic people and their families.
The conference created an opportunity for carers to speak with professionals, explore the services available to them and connect with others with shared experiences. Close working with the Autism Carers Reference Group helped ensure the programme reflected the needs and priorities of carers in the community.
It was the second conference organised through the partnership, building on a previous event focused on progression through education. This year’s programme broadened the conversation to include future planning, healthcare, learning disability services, financial support and the practical challenges families can face when navigating different systems.
Stephen McCartney, Head of Student Experience at Northern Regional College said:
“Carers have a wealth of knowledge and experience, but finding the right information and knowing where to turn for support can still be challenging. Supporting Autism Together was about bringing people and organisations into the same room, making those connections and helping carers feel better informed and supported.
“The partnership between Northern Regional College, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Education Authority is central to that. By working together and listening to carers, we can build a better understanding of what families need and how our services can support them.
“We also wanted to recognise that carers need time and support for themselves. When so much of your attention is focused on someone else’s needs, your own wellbeing can slip down the list. Making space to connect, recharge and invest in yourself was an important part of the day.”
During the morning, delegates took part in workshops covering five key areas of support. Compassionate Communities explored planning ahead, including future care considerations and conversations that can help families feel more prepared.
A session led by Claire Campbell and Kelly Kerr highlighted resources available through the Carers Hub and Learning Disability services, including practical assistance, wellbeing support and opportunities to connect with other carers.
Representatives from the Education Authority, Castle Tower School and Northern Regional College explored education and transition pathways, including opportunities to support independence, employment and lifelong learning.
The Learning Disability Nursing Service provided information on accessing healthcare, preparing for appointments and reasonable adjustments, while Make the Call offered guidance on benefits, grants and financial support.
Following an opportunity to connect over lunch, the afternoon programme focused on carers’ wellbeing. Delegates could choose between singing for wellbeing with Karen Diamond and mindfulness and stress management with Amanda-Jayne Brennan. The conference concluded with a group sound bath session led by Emma Neill.
Gillian Steele, Programme Delivery Officer for the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, said:
“Working closely with the Autism Carers Reference Group helped us shape a programme around the questions and challenges that matter most to carers. Their involvement was vital in ensuring the day offered relevant, practical information alongside opportunities to share experiences and build connections.
“Navigating services can feel overwhelming, particularly when families are planning for the future or moving between different stages of support. Through this partnership, we wanted to make that information more accessible, while recognising that carers’ own health and wellbeing deserve attention and support too.”
Hosting the event reflected Northern Regional College’s role as a community partner, bringing together education, health and support services to respond to local needs. With autistic people among its students and staff, the College recognises the importance of supporting both autistic individuals and the parents, families and carers who support them.
