Join AsIAm, Ireland’s Autism Charity, for our 2026 National Autism Conference, proudly sponsored by PTSB - a landmark event bringing together Autistic people, families, professionals, policymakers and allies to shape a more inclusive future.
Building on our commitment to a society where every Autistic person is accepted “as they are” – equal, valued and respected – this year’s conference will explore what it truly means to create an Autistic affirming society in Ireland today.
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Across Ireland, Autistic people continue to face barriers in accessing appropriate supports, exercising their rights and having their identities recognised and respected. This conference will provide a space to examine these challenges, share lived experiences and explore practical solutions across policy, services and community life.
Through a series of keynote sessions, panel discussions and interactive workshops, we will focus on three core themes:
Rights – advancing equality, autonomy and meaningful participation in society
Services – improving access, quality and responsiveness across education, health and community supports
Identity – recognising and affirming Autistic identity, voice and lived experience
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This conference is designed to be a space for learning, connection and action.
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
- Hear from leading voices across the Autistic community and beyond
- Engage with current research, policy developments and best practice
- Connect with others working towards a more inclusive and affirming society
- Contribute to conversations that will shape future advocacy and change
Whether you are an Autistic person, family member, professional or ally, this conference is an opportunity to be part of a shared vision – one where rights are upheld, services are responsive, and identity is respected.
Keynote Speakers
We are delighted to announce the keynote speakers joining us at AsIAm’s conference this September.
Keynote Speaker
Actor and Author
Bradley Riches is a British Autistic actor and author, best known for his roles as James McEwan in Heartstopper and Lewis Barton in Emmerdale. Identified as Autistic as a child, he was non-speaking for several years before discovering confidence through acting. He is also the author of Autistically Me and has become a powerful voice for Autism understanding through his creative work and public presence.
Keynote Speaker
Senior Lecturer in Inclusive Education, University of Glasgow
Dr Rebecca Wood is a Senior Lecturer in Inclusive Education at the University of Glasgow. A former teacher and inclusive education practitioner, she has led and contributed to major research projects including Transform Autism Education, the Autistic School Staff Project, and How I Communicate. She is the author of Inclusive Education for Autistic Children and lead editor of Learning from Autistic Teachers: How to Be a Neurodiversity-Inclusive School.
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Keynote Speaker
Principal Advisor, Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People, Aotearoa New Zealand
Matt Frost is a Principal Advisor at Whaikaha, where he works on disability policy, human rights, and lived experience-informed approaches. A longstanding disability rights advocate, Matt has over 20 years’ experience advancing the rights of disabled people, particularly Autistic people. He has played a key leadership role in Aotearoa New Zealand’s Autism Guideline and has represented New Zealand internationally on disability rights issues.
Keynote Speaker
Professor of Social Care, Manchester Metropolitan University
Professor Sara Ryan is Professor of Social Care at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her research focuses on the lives and experiences of Autistic people and people with learning disabilities. Her work is underpinned by scholar activism and a commitment to research that makes a difference, with particular interests in learning disability, Autism, experiences of exclusion, and regulatory processes.
Keynote Speaker
Advocate for Learning Disabilities and Inclusion
Beth Richards is an advocate for learning disabilities and inclusion. She works to help the public, media, service providers and academics better understand people with learning disabilities, supporting greater choice, opportunity and inclusion. She has contributed to Bristol’s Disability Equality Commission, appeared in educational videos with Misfits Theatre Company, and works with the NHS delivering mandatory training alongside Autistic colleagues.
Tickets are available here.
Speakers will be announced gradually in the lead up to conference. Please keep an eye on our social media for updates.
Our ticket prices remain at a cost covering price of €75 for Autistic people/family members, and €125 for professional attendees. We have not increased this price in 7 years, and the support of of PTSB and our speaker sponsors enable us to keep this cost low for our community.We do not have access to bursaries for students, but encourage those interested in attending to get in touch with their educational institution to explore options available.
Our conference is strictly 18+ due to the sensitive nature of some of the topics and themes explored on the day.
Yes, anyone enquiring about alternative booking options or block booking for a company can contact fiona@asiam.ie.
We will be putting measures in place to ensure our conference is a safe, inclusive space for all attendees. We will have a quiet room available in the main conference centre, and a visual guide will be provided to all attendees in advance of the conference. We reserve seats at the end of each row for those with mobility support needs or who wish to come and go without worrying they are disturbing anyone. On our booking form, attendees will be asked if they require;
- A quieter registration area
- A quieter dining area
- Any accessibility needs that will not be met by the above measures.
Yes, all sponsorship queries should be sent to fiona@asiam.ie.