About Us
Our Beginnings
Autism A Chara is starting 2026 with a renewed identity and a strengthened commitment to supporting autistic people and their communities. Our journey began in 2005 as Autism Spectrum Disorder Ireland (ASDI), a small organisation, built on the determination and belief that autistic individuals thrive best where there's understanding, respect, and meaningful support. In 2020, we became Autism Initiatives Ireland (AII) though our affiliation with the Autism Initiatives Group (AIG), UK, a partnership that broadened our reach and deepened our expertise.
Today, as Autism A Chara, we are continuing our journey in cultivating services for the people we support through collaboration, compassion, and community. Our new name reflects our core purpose: to stand as a trusted friend - a chara -to autistic people, their families, and the wider society. This relaunch marks not just a change of identity, but a renewed dedication to delivering high-quality, person-centred services across Ireland.
Autism A Chara
In April 2026, we have made the significant and exciting decision to transition into a fully independent, Irish-run charity. While our formal partnership with Autism Initiatives UK has come to an end, we are immensely proud of everything that has been achieved during that time.
This transition allows us to focus even more closely on the needs of the people we support and their families across Ireland. We are excited about the future of Autism A Chara and the opportunities ahead to grow, innovate, and strengthen our impact within the communities we serve.
Specialist Support for Adults with Specialist Autism
Working alongside adults with autism together with their families, care providers and communities to provide tailored and structured support where necessary.
What We Do
We provide specialist autism services for adults through a range of supports, including:
- Residential Services
- Respite Services
- Day Services
- Community Support Services
- Independent Living
Our approach is centred on the individual. We work closely with the people we support, their families, and carers to provide supports that id tailored to each person’s unique needs, preferences, and goals. Our aim is to empower the people we support to live as independently as possible, enjoy a high quality of life, and take an active role in their communities.
Our People
Our team is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to recruiting compassionate, motivated individuals who are willing to go the extra mile for the people we support.
Working with Autism A Chara means being part of a dynamic and rewarding environment where no two days are the same. Every individual we support is unique, and so too is the role our staff play in helping them achieve their goals—whether that’s building independence, improving wellbeing, or becoming more involved in their community.
Our Commitment
Our Commitment - We believe that every adult with autism deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life with the right support. We remain fully committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred services that create meaningful and lasting impact.
Our Mission - To cultivate services where autistic people can thrive and are supported to embrace their unique ways of thinking and communicating. We are committed to nurturing growth and development, respecting values and aspirations, fostering a sense of connection and belonging, and prioritising wellbeing to support a life of purpose and pride.
Our Vision - Our vision is a world where each autistic person is celebrated for who they are, is empowered to reach their full potential and to lead a meaningful life defined by their own aspirations.
