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20 Feb 2026
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20 Feb 2026
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ABOVE: Members of the Newbridge Autism Friendly Town group. Photograph provided by Cllr Chris Pender, who is also one the members of the group
An Autism awareness group based in County Kildare will host a public 'Connect' event next month.
The event, which is being organised by Newbridge Autism Friendly Town, is open to local businesses, voluntary organisations, public services and members of the wider community.
According to the group, the event aims to bring together organisations that are committing to making Newbridge a more inclusive place to live, work and play.
The initiative is working with the Autism awareness charity AsIAm as part of the process to achieve Autism Friendly Town status. Adam Harris, the charity's CEO, will be in attendance at the event and will speak about the practical changes that help Autistic people and their families feel welcome and supported in everyday settings.
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OPEN INVITE
In an effort to make Newbridge a more Autism-friendly area, the group is currently inviting organisations to become 'Autism Friendly Champions'.
They explained: "Free training and guidance is provided to support organisations to make small, practical adjustments that can have a real impact.
"Training takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and can be completed in person or online.
"Organisations that complete the training, make relevant adjustments and develop a visual guide will be accredited as Autism Friendly Champions."
The group continued: "Practical steps include changes such as adjustments to lighting or music, clearer communication, the use of visual guides and welcoming registered assistance dogs.
"With an estimated 1 in 5 people being neurodivergent, these changes benefit a wide range of people, including families, older people and those who need extra time or clarity when accessing services."
EVENT DETAILS
The 'Connect' event will take place on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 inside Scoil Mhuire Junior School, Ballymany, Newbridge.
It will commence at 7.30pm.
Anyone seeking further information or to register interest in training, contact the group's chairperson, Jennifer O'Dowd, by email on newbridgeaft@gmail.com.
Ms O'Dowd can also be contacted by phone on 087 618 1751.
In addition, the group revealed that a follow-up 'Champions Training' session will take place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 7.30pm in St Conleth’s and Mary’s Primary School, Newbridge. It will begin at 7.30pm.
Online training will also be available for those unable to attend in person.
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