At Bolster Community, they know that no two people with autism are the same. Some are chatty, others quiet. Some love eye contact, others avoid it. Some thrive in social settings, others find them exhausting. And all of that is okay. As Bolster Community Autism members have stated:
💬 “I might be stimming or repeating words, but I am listening. That’s just how I process the world.”
💬 “Autism doesn’t define me. It’s just part of who I am—I still have goals, dreams, and fears like anyone else.”
This month, Bolster Community are wearing pink and purple in solidarity with those apart of the autism community, and inviting others to do the same. It’s a small way for them to say: “You are seen. You are welcome here.”
If you’re an adult with an autism-only or neurodiverse diagnosis (or currently waiting for one), and you live in the Southern Trust area, Bolster' Community's Autism Connect might be just the space you’ve been looking for.
Run by the team at Bolster Community, Autism Connect is a weekly social hub for people aged 18+ who often find themselves falling through the cracks when it comes to support. Maybe other services haven’t felt quite right. Maybe social settings feel overwhelming. Or maybe, you just haven’t found your people yet.
At Autism Connect, there’s no pressure—just a safe space to be yourself, connect with others, and take things at your own pace.
So, what actually is Autism Connect?
It’s different for everyone—and that’s kind of the point.
Some members love joining in with board games or movie nights, others prefer a quiet cup of tea and a chat. Some come to discover new interests like animation, archery or music-making, while others just want to sit in the same room with people who get it. Reports have been that Bolster Community have been known to throw a themed party or two (last year’s silent disco was anything but silent!).
But at the heart of it all is belonging. A place to share, laugh, learn, grow—and not be judged.
“Only for Autism Connect, I would never go out. I now have the confidence and feel safe in a friendly environment with other individuals. The members are brilliant.”
Who is it for?
Autism Connect is open to adults aged 18+ who live in the Southern Trust area and either:
- Have an autism or neurodiverse diagnosis, or
- Are awaiting diagnosis.
It’s designed for individuals without a learning disability or mental health co-morbidity, as the service is tailored to those who don’t meet the criteria for other support options.
If you’re unsure whether it’s the right fit, just reach out to Bolster Community —they're always happy to talk things through.
Weekly Meet-Ups
Autism Connect meets in three different locations across the region—each group has its own vibe, but the same welcoming energy.
- BANBRIDGE: Tuesdays, 6.30pm – 8.30pm
- PORTADOWN: Thursdays, 6.30pm – 8.30pm
- NEWRY: Thursdays, 7pm – 9pm
You’ll need to register in advance, but every individual's pace is considered.
“Our staff are here to support you, but what you get out of Autism Connect depends on what you put in. My advice? Just try it. Even if you only stay for 20 minutes that first time, you’ve already taken a step.”
Want to Join Autism Connect?
If Autism Connect sounds like something you’d like to explore, get in contact.
Email autismconnect@bolstercommunity.org
Call 028 3083 5764 and ask for Sharon.
Or just visit bolstercommunity.org to learn more.
Autism Connect is part of the ‘Ability’ strand of services at Bolster Community—a not-for-profit organisation supporting individuals and families from early years through later life across Newry, Kilkeel, and beyond.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a place to start.