“The Right Place” Conference Sparks Hope and Solutions for Autistic Adult Housing
On Thurs 22nd May, we gathered for The Right Place Conference – an event which brought together parents, housing specialists, support organisations, local authorities, and advocates to tackle one of the most pressing and under-addressed issues in the neurodivergent community: where and how autistic adults can live fulfilling, independent lives.
Hosted in an atmosphere brimming with warmth, collaboration, and energy, the conference was a powerful platform for discussion, connection, and shared vision with ene parent sharing, “This event makes me hopeful about my daughter’s future…for the first time, I don’t feel so alone navigating these challenges.”
Breaking down barriers, Building up ideas
The conference featured a series of engaging speakers including Emma Stubbs – Assistant Director, Sustainable Housing at NIHE; Dr Liz McMonagle – Consultant Clinical Psychologist SHSCT; Nicola Preston – Tarasis Enterprises; Micheál Mc Swiggan & Carla Jones – NIHE; Joe Galbraith – Radius Housing; and Gerry Flynn – Bolster Community Board Member. Attendees had the chance to engage directly with service providers, developers, and care specialists. Topics ranged from supported living models and funding pathways to inclusive design and tenant rights.
In response, professionals offered insight into innovative housing approaches, including co-housing communities, tech-assisted independence, and transitions from residential care into more autonomous living environments.
Voices of leadership & support
Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Kyle Savage addressed the conference, emphasising the need for inclusive, collaborative planning. “Housing is more than bricks and mortar – it’s about dignity, independence, and the right to thrive,” he said.
Moving forward together
Allison Slater Head of Operations at Bolster community said, “The Right Place Conference marks the beginning of a longer, community-driven effort to redefine housing for autistic adults in our region – and we look forward to building on the momentum of today’s event.”
Feedback was hugely positive with many attendees expressing a renewed sense of hope, solidarity, and direction. “This isn’t just about housing,” said one speaker. “It’s about belonging. It’s about saying: you deserve to live somewhere that feels like home.”
While the day brought connection, insight and energy, it also shone a light on just how far we still have to go. Many families shared that existing housing options simply don’t meet the unique needs of autistic adults — with too many falling between services, systems, or strict criteria.
We know there are no quick fixes. But we hope this event has started something – a shared commitment to working together on solutions that are shaped by, and truly responsive to, the lives and needs of autistic people and their families.
Bolster Community would like to extend their sincere thanks to everyone who came to and participated in the event. For more highlights, upcoming events, and to join the conversation, please follow us on Facebook.
✨ Our Autism Connect programme offers 1:1 mentoring, peer support, social hubs, trips, and more — all designed with and for the autistic community. If you or someone you know might be interested in joining or learning more – please contact Sharon at Bolster Community by phone or email – details below.
📞 028 3083 5764
📧 autismconnect@bolstercommunity.org
