In a recent interview on ‘Access All Areas’, presented by BCIL members, two mothers, Nadine and Aishling, shared their struggles with the lack of school places for children with autism in Dublin 15.
Nadine, who has an autistic child in preschool, expressed her difficulties in securing a school place in Dublin. She said, “I have applied between the last year and this year for over 16 different schools, I didn’t get a school place”. She shared her concerns about her kid’s progress, who was non-verbal two years ago but has excelled with the help of teachers. “She fears he may regress if he doesn’t continue to receive the necessary support.”
Aishling stated: “We do need autistic specific schools where our kids go from junior to senior, first to second and every time they move on a class allows the door to be open for new kids to come in. Dublin 15 at the minute is saturated”. Her statement highlights the urgent need for more autism-specific educational facilities in the area.
“Access All Areas” is a weekly radio show broadcasted on the local community radio station Phoenix 92.5FM. Presented by BCIL staff and volunteers, the show airs every Thursday from 4 PM for one hour.
You can delve into their personal experiences and stories by tuning in to the attached interview podcast.