Call for Kildare residents to make Newbridge a more Autism-friendly town

People on the Autism Spectrum (AS) in Ireland often face a variety of hurdles and challenges.

In fact, the AS awareness and advocacy group AsIAm found earlier this year that there are still a number of "deep inequalities" that those with AS face on a day-to-day basis in Ireland.

And although the world is more progressive now more than ever when it comes to understanding and supporting those with AS, the findings from AsIAm indicate that more work is needed to accommodate those with AS.

Echoing this sentiment, Social Democrats councillor Chris Pender has called on those living in Newbridge and beyond to make the town more Autism-friendly town.

Taking to Facebook, Cllr Pender revealed that an AS awareness group, Newbridge Autism Friendly Town, has been established.

He added that the new group recently met for the first time in order to set out "the way forward toward the AsIAm Autism Friendly Town Award for Newbridge".

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Speaking further on the establishment of the group, Cllr Pender said: "I am delighted to be involved and to support this group in every way I can.

"There is a lot of work to do, but the commitment in the room [on the day] was clear."

He concluded: "If you want to get involved in making Newbridge a more Autism-friendly town, give us a shout; we would love to have you on board."

ACCEPTANCE OF AUTISM

In addition, the Chairperson of the group, Jennifer O'Dowd, told the Leader: "According to the Department of Education, one in 20 children have been identifed as Autistic in Ireland.

"Our goal is to raise awareness, increase understanding and acceptance of autism within our community."

She continued: "We are working to make Newbridge a place where everyone can live, work and play, happily and safely; where everyone has the same chance to be accepted as they are.

"We invite all businesses, voluntary and sporting organisations, and public services to become champions and to help make Newbridge more inclusive for all."

She also said that every organisation that does get in touch with the group "will be supported and empowered by the Committee and by AsIAm to become Autism-friendly".

"We are currently engaging with organisations who wish to become champions, with a view to offering free training and support to all in early 2026," Ms O'Dowd added. "To find out more, email us on newbridgeaft@gmail.com."

Further information about AS can be found on the official AsIAm website.

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File photograph

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