A new initiative will see Dublin become the first autism-friendly capital city in the world.
The ambitious scheme was announced by Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithí de Róiste.
The drive to make Dublin an autism-friendly capital city is in association with the AsIAm Autism-Friendly Communities Awards Programme.
De Róiste is establishing a steering group comprising of the Lord Mayor of Dublin, elected officials, stakeholders, advocacy groups, those with lived experience, parents and academics.
The group will carry out four public events between now and Christmas to discuss the formation of a plan, what should be included, what metrics should be set and how it will be managed.
The four events will also cover overarching goals for the city, building landscapes to align with the vision, public awareness and understanding of the scheme and engaging with individual sectors.
“In a world where diversity and inclusivity are celebrated, Dublin’s vision is to become the world’s first capital city to be designated autism friendly,” said the Lord Mayor.
“In a vibrant and dynamic city known for its rich history and cultural heritage, we envision a Dublin that not only recognises, but actively nurtures the unique abilities and talents of its autistic residents and visitors.”
“To truly champion inclusivity, we are planting a flag in the ground to embark on a journey to create a city where autistic individuals and their families feel welcomed, supported, and fully engaged in every aspect of city life,” he said.
The three-year will be launched in January 2024.
The plan aligns with de Róiste’s pledge to make Dublin a “city of kindness,” a vow he made when he was elected as Lord Mayor in July.
Speaking at the time, he said “a small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day – it is a program that costs nothing that anybody can start.”
As part of the plan, the city will also recruit Champion organisations, in the business, public and voluntary sectors, who will undertake training and commit to making small changes, such as implementing quiet times.
Responding to the announcement, Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm, Ireland’s Autism Charity, said “we are over the moon that the Lord Mayor has set Dublin the challenge of becoming an Autism-Friendly capital city, through participation in our awards programme.”
“Autistic people face barriers in society that others don’t even see. This initiative, through both small individual changes and a big collective vision, will help ensure that every Autistic person living in Dublin has the same chance to live, work and play.”
“Being an Autism Friendly City not only means making day-to-day activities such as shopping or engaging with public services easier for those of us who are Autistic, it sends a valuable message that everyone is valued and welcome and the positive impact of that sense of belonging, for everyone who lives in Dublin, cannot be underestimated.”
It is estimated that 1 in 65 people in Ireland are on the autism spectrum, with 2018 data from the Irish government estimating that 1.5% of students within the Irish education system are on the autism spectrum.