Steps to Take After an Autism Diagnosis in Ireland: Support, Self-Care, and Community
An autism diagnosis for your child can feel overwhelming, but in Ireland, there are many supports, schools, and financial aids available to help you navigate this journey. This guide expands on our previous post, Autism Diagnosis in Ireland: Public and Private Pathways Explained (2025) offering actionable steps to access resources, understand school placements, and build a support network.
This article will go through the steps of what to do after your child receives an autism diagnosis
Your own reaction, reactions of others and where to receive support.
Processing the Autism Diagnosis: Emotional Support and First Steps
Initial reactions
Every parent reacts differently to an autism diagnosis. Some may feel disbelief or grief and need time to accept it, while others jump straight into action, downloading forms and scheduling appointments. Both responses are natural, but it’s important to pace yourself. Taking one step at a time can prevent burnout and help you stay focused.
Give yourself and others time to process the diagnosis. Everyone copes differently, and that’s okay
See if you can go to some workshops or play sessions for children with special needs.
even more have already known the diagnosis was coming and have already processed the fact and the paperwork is just confirmation and the next step.
How to support reluctant family and friends
Supporting family and friends who are reluctant to accept your child’s diagnosis can be challenging. Connecting with other parents of autistic children and sharing their experiences can help. When loved ones see that autism is not a negative label, but part of your child’s unique journey, they may begin to understand. Building a community fosters this acceptance and provides the emotional support you need."
Navigating reactions from family and friends can be challenging. If someone isn’t supportive, it’s okay to set boundaries for now. Protecting your mental health will help you focus on what matters most: your child.
In time you can increase contact or conversation around your childs diagnosis. I found focusing on their strengths and improvements and your proud moments is the best way to do this. Show them it isn’t negative. Even if you feel at the time it is
Building Your Autism Support Network in Ireland: Parents, Groups, and Communities
Connecting with other parents
Forming connections with other parents of autistic children can be life-changing. My strongest allies are two parents I met through Facebook groups—they live in Kildare and Wexford, while I’m in Louth. Despite our children’s unique needs, we’ve created a support system that helps us share advice, navigate challenges, and remind each other that we’re not alone.
online communties and facebook groups
Online communities, such as Facebook groups, can be a treasure trove of support and ideas. Many groups listed in our Resources section allow you to post anonymously or simply browse discussions. Knowing that others are experiencing similar challenges can be a huge comfort.
Do you have any other reccomendations? Share them in the comments.
Self-Care for Parents After an Autism Diagnosis
Prioritizing your own well-being is essential. As the parent of an autistic child, the demands of forms, appointments, and daily tasks can feel overwhelming. Even small breaks—like enjoying a coffee with a friend, reading a book, or going for a walk—can recharge you and help you better focus on your child’s needs.
Personally, I love to read—I’ve already finished 12 books this year! Another activity I enjoy is diamond painting, which I find calming and creative. Of course, self-care looks different for everyone. Take time to discover what helps you relax and recharge.
Don’t pressure yourself. Take things slow and only choose maybe 3 things to work on at any one time, sure there is endless amounts you can do but you cant pour from an empty cup
and remember a diagnosis is just an explanation for what has already been if your child receives an autism diagnosis they have always been autistic. you just now have the words.
Once you’ve begun processing the diagnosis, the next step is to connect with a supportive community. This can make all the difference as you navigate this journey.
so now that weve established you need to care for yourself. what are the next steps for supports and services ?
School Placements for Autistic Children in Ireland: What You Need to Know"
School options
what is needed in the report
School placements for autistic children in Ireland rely heavily on the psychologist’s report. If a special school or autism class is recommended, make sure the report explicitly states that this placement is essential for your child’s development. Include specific reasons, as this documentation is crucial for securing the right placement.
Steps to Apply for School Placements:
1. Ensure the psychologist’s report is up to date (within 2 years).
2. Email parentsnotify@ncse.ie to inform them of your needs.and complete the forms they send back.
3. Submit report and applications to schools you’re considering.
4. Wait for approval letters from NCSE to provide to the school.
reccomendations for mainstream in report and what they mean
If mainstream is whats recommended then you apply as normal to places, recommendations in the report for school can be taken into consideration by the school but nothing is guaranteed. Examples of recommendations may be sna access movement breaks visuals to be used etc.
Financial supports for Families of Autistic Children in Ireland
I will go into these in more detail in other blogs of what exactly you need and how to complete the forms but for now so that you know what they are
Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA):
Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is granted in Ireland based on your child’s care needs rather than their diagnosis. To apply, submit the completed DCA forms along with any required documentation. This financial support helps families manage the additional costs associated with their child’s care."
Carers allowance for a child under 16 you have to have dca to get this. And then it looks at means test for how much you would receive. If you are in receipt of certain other social welfare payments you may get half rate carers allowance aswell as your other payment
Carers benefit: having dca makes it easier to get this but its not a necessity you can apply without dca but you need to prove the care needs are there for you to get carers benefit.
Household benefits
You need to be in receipt of certain payments to get this. Carers allowance is one of these payments. You receive a free tv licence and roughly 35 per month towards a household bill.
Incapacitated child tax credit.
Based on the child’s inability to work after age 18. Requires certification from a GP.
Can be backdated up to four years
incapacitated-child-tax-credit-claim-form-1.pdf
incapacitated-child-tax-credit-claim-form-2.pdf
Therapies and Services for Autistic Children in Ireland
As detailed inAutism Diagnosis in Ireland: Public and Private Pathways Explained (2025) apply to services based on your childs needs either through Childrens Disabiity Network team (cdnt) or primary care.
For private therapy options, research providers in your area early, as many have long waitlists. Before committing, review your health insurance policy to determine if it covers therapy costs. Some plans cover up to 75% of therapy expenses, up to a set annual limit. To save money, confirm provider availability before purchasing insurance solely for this purpose.
Navigating life after an autism diagnosis is a journey, but you’re not alone. With the right supports and a strong community, you can build a thriving path for your child.
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Stay tuned for our next blogs, where we’ll dive deeper into financial supports, therapy options, and adult autism diagnosis. Follow our Facebook or Instagram pages to ensure you don’t miss out!