Maynooth Autism Friendly Town
Maynooth holds AsIAm Autism Friendly Town status and was the second town in Ireland to achieve it. Local businesses, schools and public services have trained as Autism Friendly Champions, and the committee runs sensory-friendly events so autistic people and families can take part in town life.
What does Autism Friendly Town status mean?
Autism Friendly Town status means a community has met AsIAm’s framework for including autistic people. That includes a local committee, a three-year town plan written with autistic people, and a quota of trained Autism Friendly Champions. An independent panel led by autistic people reviews progress every year.
Champions complete autism training, add sensory supports and visual guides, and welcome assistance dogs. They refresh the training every 18 months.
What has Maynooth done to become autism friendly?
Maynooth’s committee has trained champions across local businesses, schools and public services. It has also launched hang-outs for autistic adults, run a sensory Santa experience and set up a quiet zone at the town’s St Patrick’s Day parade. The committee has been raising funds for a sensory garden too.
That work earned Maynooth the top prize at the AsIAm Autism Friendly Town Awards in 2024. A year later it won the Sensory Accessibility Award.
Where are the autism-friendly places in Maynooth?
Look for the Autism Friendly Champion sticker on shop doors, cafés and services around town. Champions have trained staff, sensory supports and visual guides to help you plan your visit. Ask the Maynooth Autism Friendly Town Committee for the current champions list.
Tips for autistic visitors and families
- Contact the committee before a visit for the latest champions list and events.
- Look out for quiet zones at big community events such as the St Patrick’s Day parade.
- Ask staff about quieter times when you arrive at a champion venue.
- Weekday mornings are usually calmer than weekend afternoons on Main Street.
- Bring ear defenders or a comfort item for parades and festivals.
FAQ
Is Maynooth an autism friendly town? Yes. Maynooth holds AsIAm Autism Friendly Town status and was the second town in Ireland to achieve it.
What sensory events does Maynooth run? The committee has run a sensory Santa experience, a quiet zone at the St Patrick’s Day parade and hang-outs for autistic adults.
Who runs Autism Friendly Maynooth? The Maynooth Autism Friendly Town Committee, chaired by Donna Phelan, working with AsIAm.
What awards has Maynooth won? The top prize at the AsIAm Autism Friendly Town Awards 2024 and the Sensory Accessibility Award in 2025.
How many towns in Ireland are autism friendly? Ten communities held Autism Friendly status as of October 2026, with around 50 taking part in the programme.