Specialisterne Northern Ireland (Empower)

Specialisterne Northern Ireland is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering autistic and neurodivergent (ADHD, OCD, Tourette’s, Dyslexia & Dyspraxia) individuals of all ages. Our mission is to assist autistic and neurodivergent people in securing and progressing in fulfilling careers in their chosen fields. Whilst also providing a community where neurodivergent individuals can meet new people and have meaningful social interactions. Our team are Autism and Neurodiversity Consultants and specialise in employment training. At Specialisterne we celebrate neurodivergence and have different programmes suited for 8 years old and up (there is no upper age limit). We provide in-school sessions, host afterschool’s clubs, have regular social meet ups and employability training programmes.

Current programmes include:

Empower – has the aim of supporting you to take the next step in your career, whether that be applying for jobs, securing work, developing skills and/or securing a course of study. Mentors from different sectors regularly come in to teach us about their field and you will have access to IBM Skillsbuild. This programme is for autistic and neurodivergent people age 16+ (no upper age limit).

Capita – has the aim of getting you ‘job ready’ and helps to provide you with essential skills needed for joining the workforce. Sessions will include: 1-1s to determine interests, goals, and barriers, interest groups and coffee meet ups, Job club & IBM Skillsbuild. This programme is for autistic and neurodivergent people age 16+ (no upper age limit).

All2gether – is for autistic and neurodivergent adults which is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. This is our social programme where participants can have fun trips and days out, interest groups and a great way to build confidence, connect with others and feel represented in society.

Connect 4 - supports autistic and neurodivergent secondary children aged between 11-18 to meet others, build friendships, feel more confident and ready for the future.

Dot 2 Dot - supports autistic and neurodivergent primary school children (p5-p7) to socialise with others, learn about autism and neurodiversity, build friendships, feel more confident and ready for the future.

Referral made by emailing Monica – monica.owen@specialisterne.com and asking for more information.