Autonomie would like to sincerely thank everyone who made the Supporting Living Information Day and Exhibition on Wednesday 20th September at The Balmoral Hotel, Belfast a huge success.
Sharon Quinn, Family Voice Hub Co-ordinator, parent and event lead organiser says: “Bringing this first of it’s kind event to Belfast was a huge achievement for all involved and we are incredibly humbled by the huge attendance of parents/carers and families. The turnout exceeded our expectations.
Firstly, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank each and every parent / carer for attending. As the lead organiser and as a parent of a young person with additional needs I know first hand how important and challenging is it to access information, resources and services on supported living to make informed decisions and feel empowered to support my child to the best of my ability.
From your feedback we know how much you as a parent / carer gained by coming along yesterday and the need for more of these events in the community and how reduced funding are impacting support services.
Thanks Robbie Butler MLA and Chairperson of the All-Party Group on Disability for opening the event and for his unwavering continued support.
“A huge thank you to all our wonderful keynote speakers. Peter McMinn and Marion Fisher at NIHE, Lynne Donnelly at South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and Michael Graham Cleaver Fulton Rankin for their insight (professional and personal) not only during their talks but for taking the time to answer any questions attendees had after their talks.
“I would like to thank each and every organisation that came along to make the Supported Living Exhibition invaluable to parents / carers. Over 200 attendees were able to speak to 20 support organisations teams and find out about supporting living services and resources they offer that could benefit their young person now and in the future.”
“Lastly, I would like to thank Autonomie young people who volunteered on the day and helped with months of planning. Thanks to Lynne Morrison, Autonomie Chief Executive for believing in Grainne and I to deliver this vital first of its kind event. Thanks to all Autonomie volunteers and staff who helped make this day possible and The Balmoral Hotel team for the wonderful hospitality.”
