Northern Ireland

Ulster GAA announce charity partnership with Autism NI

As well as raising funds for autism services, Ulster GAA hopes to provide more chances for young people to participate in sport

Ulster GAA President Ciaran McLaughlin with Autism NI CEO Kerry Boyd.
Ulster GAA President Ciaran McLaughlin with Autism NI CEO Kerry Boyd.

ULSTER GAA has launched a new charity partnership to raise funds for Autism NI throughout 2024.

Ciaran McLaughlin, Ulster GAA President, said he was hopeful the partnership could encourage even more young people into enjoying sport.

“Through our Games For All program, we have become even more aware of the number of neuro-divergent young people in our communities across Ulster,” he said.

“Supporting the charity will provide opportunities to increase capacity in all our clubs and counties which will enable these young people to participate in our activities.”



Autism NI CEO Kerry Boyd commented: " We are delighted that Ulster GAA has pledged to support Autism NI this year by raising vital funds for our local autism services and campaigning for autism acceptance within society.

“We also welcome the organisation’s vision to continue to make their games inclusive to our autism community.

“We look forward to working with Ulster GAA over the next year and building an impactful partnership that will make a difference.

“In particular, this partnership will help raise funds for our Helpline service, which is a vital service for many autistic people, families and professionals.”

“Our Helpline takes up to 7,500 calls per year and provides advice, information and resources to our autism community.”

Ulster GAA President Ciaran McLaughlin with Autism NI CEO Kerry Boyd.
Ulster GAA President Ciaran McLaughlin with Autism NI CEO Kerry Boyd.

She added that the charity provides services for over 35,000 autistic people and their families in Northern Ireland, as well as campaigning for acceptance within society.

Further information is available by calling 028 9040 1729 or visiting www.autismni.org