About Dóchas Midwest Autism Support
Dóchas Midwest Autism Support was established in 1997 by a group of parents concerned about the lack of diagnostic and support services for their autistic children. Based in Limerick, the centre has since become a key provider of autism support services in the Midwest region of Ireland.
Services Supporting the Autism Community
Dóchas Midwest Autism Support offers various services, including weekly social interaction clubs, adult support programmes, and family support services. The centre is well-equipped with sensory rooms, as well as dedicated spaces for gaming, music, and Lego activities. Last year alone, Dóchas Midwest Autism Support provided services to nearly 2,000 individuals and families across the region.
Sharon Phelan, Operations Director, HSF Health Plan, presenting a €5,000 grant to Cyril Killeen, Centre Manager & Audrey Barnes, Training & Career Development Co-Ordinator, Dochas Midwest Autism Support.
The Now and Next Programme
Dóchas Midwest Autism Support aims to deliver the Now and Next programme, an initiative that originated in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. The Now and Next programme supports parents and carers of autistic individuals by focusing on ability rather than disability. The programme promotes self-reliance, skill development, and personalised goal-setting, empowering families to reduce long-term dependence on external services.
This programme will be led by a trainer from Canada, who will provide group and individual sessions over four to five weeks, while also training local staff to deliver the programme in the future.
The Grant
The Hospital Saturday Fund awarded a grant of €5,000 to Dóchas Midwest Autism Support. This funding will help implement the Now and Next programme. Interest in the programme is already high, with a significant waiting list and enquiries from autism organisations outside the Midwest region.
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