Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council will host a special event for parents and carers of children with disabilities and additional or complex needs on Wednesday 27 May from 9.30am to 2pm at Theatre at The Mill and Museum at The Mill, Newtownabbey.
Titled ‘We See You’, the event will offer practical advice, emotional support and opportunities for families to connect with others who understand the realities of caring for children with additional and complex needs.
Hosted by broadcaster Paul Clark, the programme will feature a series of speakers and discussions focused on recognising the contribution of carers and highlighting the support available to them. Attendees will also hear from the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, who will share her personal experience as a parent-carer of autistic children and reflect on the challenges and rewards of family life.
Other guest speakers include Sasha Gillespie, Law Lecturer at Ulster University; Susan Walls from Contact Northern Ireland; and Alma White from Caleb’s Cause. The Hillcroft School Makaton Choir will provide a special performance during the event.
The Mayor, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick said:
“Parents and carers of disabled children play an invaluable role in our community, yet this often goes unacknowledged with many sacrificing career opportunities and personal well-being to meet the demands of caregiving.
“We See You is about recognising those experiences, bringing people together and ensuring parents and carers are heard, valued and supported. As a parent of autistic children, I fully understand how vital that recognition and support can be.”
The event has been designed to be relaxed, inclusive and accessible, and carers are welcome to attend with the person they support.
To register for the event, visit: https://antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/WeSeeYou-registration