Family Resource Centre National Forum

09/04/2026

💙 World Autism Month – April 2026 💙

April is a time to recognise, celebrate and support the Autistic community across Ireland 🇮🇪

This year, Asiam.ie are bringing people together through a range of meaningful events and initiatives, creating opportunities for Autistic people, families and carers to have their voices heard 🗣️

✨ Highlights include:
The launch of the Same Chance Survey Report shaped by lived
experiences and helping inform the next National Autism Strategy : https://asiam.ie/news/seven-in-ten-say-autism-misinformation-is-rising-in-ireland---new-asiam-report
The Same Chance Walk on April 12 in Dublin & Galway 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️
“Host Your Own Walk” events happening in communities across the country 🤝
A Schools Webinar (April 17) in partnership with Microsoft Dream Space, supporting greater understanding of Autism in schools 🏫

Together, these initiatives reflect a shared goal: creating a more inclusive Ireland where Autistic people have the same chance to thrive 💙

For more information https://asiam.ie/world-autism-month

At the Family Resource Centre National Forum (FRCNF), we know that support matters. If you or your family are feeling overwhelmed, or you just dont know where to start, your local Family Resource Centre can help you connect with services and supports in your community.

📍 Find your local Family Resource Centre here: https://www.familyresource.ie/family-resource-centres-regions.php

💙

New research highlights financial pressures, waiting lists and need for action on Programme for Government commitment on National Autism Strategy

02/04/2026

📢 New Resource for Young People Leaving School - Please share with anyone who might benefit.

The School Leavers’ Guide 2026 from the Citizens Information Board is now available, a really valuable resource for young people navigating life after school.

Leaving school can be an exciting but also overwhelming time, with big decisions ahead. It’s important to remember that there are many different pathways to building a future, not just going to college. This guide explores a range of topics, including further education, employment, financial supports, and accommodation.

Having clear, accessible information like this can help young people feel more confident and supported as they take their next steps.

Available in Englishhttps://www.citizensinformationboard.ie/downloads/guides/Information_for_school_leavers_2026_en.pdf

Irish:https://www.citizensinformationboard.ie/downloads/guides/Information_for_school_leavers_2026_ga.pdf

31/03/2026

26/03/2026

25/03/2026

This iconic photo was taken at the recent Amped Up music showcase in the GAA Hall organised by the Bandon Youth Group.
Youth bands from all over west cork participated
As you can see everyone had a great time 😁making music and friends the room was full of talented young people who showed the audience what they are capable of many of these young people are only beginning their music journeys. Music classes continue with the group every Thursday their tutor Martin Vallee is an experienced musician with a Masters in music but also is able to instruct in such a way that he gets the best out of each young person.
We are not core funded by the government to run any of the programs we offer the young people at the Bandon FRC and so are often looking around for little grants and fundraising to keep going. Any ideas are very welcome
We believe the well-being of our young people needs to be supported in the community through the arts rather than in the services with projects like these the link between Arts and Health is well documented all you need to do is look at the faces of this group to know it works !

23/03/2026

🌿 Social Prescribing Day – 26 March 2026

Wellbeing Through Community Connections

Social Prescribing Day is a chance to celebrate the people and organisations supporting individuals to improve their health and wellbeing through community connections.

Across communities, social prescribing is making a real difference—connecting people to local supports, reducing isolation, and promoting inclusion and wellbeing.

This year’s theme, “Wellbeing Through Community Connections,” highlights the power of linking people with services, groups, and activities that support their needs.

Let’s come together to raise awareness, share learning, and celebrate the impact of social prescribing.

Find out more about social prescribing and local services at https://www.allirelandsocialprescribing.ie

👉 Join the conversation and share your work using

23/03/2026

12/03/2026

It’s wonderful to see the incredible work of Family Resource Centres being recognised, especially during the celebrations for International Women’s Day. Visits like this highlight the importance of the community support, inclusion and connection that FRCs provide every day.

Thank you President Catherine Connolly and Well done to everyone at Cara House Family Resource Centre for hosting such a meaningful event and for continuing to create such a welcoming space for families and communities. 👏

12/03/2026

12/03/2026

Fantastic, thanks to Uachtarán na hÉireann / President of Ireland Catherine Connolly for visiting another FRC in Cara House Family Resource Centre and showing such genuine support for our National FRC Programme!