The National Autistic Society Northern Ireland raised an incredible sum of more than £100,000 at a Gala Dinner in celebration of its 20th anniversary. All money raised at the event will go towards the charity’s work to support autistic people and their families in Northern Ireland.

The Gala Dinner was held at the Titanic Hotel in Belfast on Friday 17th October, hosted by the broadcaster, Lynette Fay. Guests enjoyed dinner, a silent auction, dancing and an amazing performance by the Irish Dance troupe, Ta'Da.

Highlights included a powerful conversation between Shirelle Stewart, Director of the National Autistic Society Northern Ireland, and Julie Tipping, who took part in the charity’s Forgotten Voices campaign and the BBC Spotlight documentary, I Am Not Okay. The event’s keynote speaker, Claire Burke gave a powerful account of her journey and received a standing ovation.

The Gala Dinner was generously sponsored by Alan Nappin of the ARN Foundation.

Shirelle Stewart, Director of the National Autistic Society Northern Ireland, said: “We had a fabulous evening at our hugely successful 20th anniversary Gala Dinner and would like to thank everyone who supported the event, including our incredible host, performers, speakers and guests. All funds raised on the night will go towards our work to support autistic people and their families in Randalstown and CarryDuff. We look forward to providing more vital services for autistic people and their families across Northern Ireland.”

Further information

• Find out more about the National Autistic Society Northern Ireland.
• Read more about our Northern Ireland services.
• Read about our Northern Ireland Autism Centre.
• Subscribe to our Northern Ireland newsletter.