(Ireland) Ballina officially recognized as "Autism Friendly Town"

April 28, 2026, North Mayo town achieves Autism Friendly Town status - Mayo Live

Ballina has been officially recognised as an Autism Friendly Town, earning national acclaim at the AsIAm Autism Friendly Towns Awards 2026.

The prestigious award was presented at a ceremony in Dublin City Hall on Friday night, where communities from across Ireland were honoured for their commitment to creating more inclusive environments for autistic people and their families.

Ballina was one of five towns nationwide to achieve Autism Friendly Town status this year, joining Terenure, Enfield, Arklow and Blarney in receiving the accolade.

The award recognises the extensive work carried out by local organisations, businesses, community groups and volunteers to make Ballina a more welcoming and accessible place for autistic individuals.

In addition to securing full Autism Friendly Town status, Ballina also received the Community Engagement Award, highlighting its outstanding efforts in fostering inclusive public spaces and meaningful local participation.

AsIAm, Ireland’s national autism charity, praised Ballina’s dedication to understanding, accessibility and acceptance.

Chief Executive Adam Harris said the awards celebrate communities that are turning the idea of inclusion into everyday reality.

“The leadership shown by these towns matters,” he said. “Their commitment is helping to build an Ireland where everyone truly has the same chance to belong.”

The event also marked the largest-ever expansion of the Autism Friendly Towns programme, with 50 communities now participating nationwide.

To achieve the designation, communities must establish a dedicated committee, implement a three-year action plan, provide autism awareness training, and demonstrate meaningful progress across a range of inclusion measures.

Ballina’s success reflects a strong local commitment to ensuring autistic people can participate fully in community life.