Downpatrick Autism Family Support Group is a small registered charity based in Downpatrick, Co.Down. DAFSG was founded in 2017 by 2 local parents who felt there was no support for their families both before and after an Autism diagnosis. They joined forces and went about setting up a parents support group.

This initially started as a monthly cup of coffee and a chat but quickly blossomed into something bigger due to sheer determination of our parents to make a difference. DAFSG is managed by a small committee who are all parents of autistic children which now includes new as well as founding members. We offer support to over 200 local families with membership increasing weekly due to the demand for our support.

We want to make a practical difference to the children and young people & their families by providing a strong support network. Our activities and events are a good way for families to get to talk to one another and realise they are not alone. It is very important to have the opportunity to meet others who understand the daily challenges & struggles they face as a family. We want to remove the isolation felt by both autistic children & their families.

Some examples of our activities include:

Monthly Parent Support Groups

Specialised Autism Parent Training

Parents Stress Relieving Programme mental health workshops, yoga, complimentary therapies, cookery, candle making, facial nights, dads only events etc

Occupational Therapy

Music Therapy

Social Clubs

Saturday Club

Fun Days

Summer Schemes

Trips Out

Sibling Events

Balanceability courses

AND MUCH MORE.....

At present we dont have our own premises and rent rooms in various different centres when they are available. Unfortunately this is not ideal and provides no continuity for our families. It is very difficult for us to co-ordinate programmes with no set premises. With this in mind we now need to make our dream of having our very own dedicated AUTISM SUPPORT CENTRE a reality.

In order for us to be able to apply for large capital grants we need to raise money so we can match fund the grant.

We will be holding lots of different fundraisers this year & will be sharing this just giving campaign to raise funds. We have a GLOW WALK, MILE CHALLENGE, AFTERNOON TEA PARTY & LOTS MORE ORGANISED.

We are really on a mission to raise £25,000!!!

We would really appreciate your help to make this possible.