The Great Autism Practice Award 

PBS Team, Positive Futures 

The PBS Team at Positive Futures demonstrates exceptional autism practice through compassionate, evidence-based support that transforms lives. By placing each person’s voice, communication, sensory needs, and aspirations at the centre, they create environments where autistic people thrive. Their advocacy, innovation, and commitment to dignity, independence, and inclusion set an outstanding example.

The Employer Award 

Brothers Autism 

David’s passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment are evident in every aspect of the organisation he has built. He has invested his heart and soul into creating meaningful change, and it has been inspiring to witness its growth. I look forward to following their journey and seeing the continued positive impact on many more lives.

Informing Choices NI 

This organisation stood out for its genuine commitment to being truly person-centred, both in supporting the people they serve and valuing their staff team. Mark’s passion and dedication were evident throughout our conversation as he shared the depth of their work, the personalised support they provide, and the culture of care they foster.

The Newcomer Award 

Caoimhe Murray, The Cedar Foundation

Caoimhe brings a deeply personal and hands on approach to supporting young adults with learning disabilities and Down syndrome. Despite working part-time, she dedicates herself fully finding tailored opportunities, from employment to hobbies, and guiding them through challenges. Her advocacy and trust building grounded in her own lived experiences have not only transformed individual lives but also sparked partnerships with both small and big cooperate companies, paving the way for a more inclusive future.

The Support Worker Award (Independent) 

Lynn Fletcher, Positive Futures

Lynn is a truly exceptional support worker whose compassion, dedication, and person-centred approach make a profound difference to the lives of those she supports. She goes above and beyond to create meaningful opportunities, promote independence, and ensure every person feels valued, respected, and empowered. Her kindness, teamwork, and unwavering commitment make her highly deserving of this recognition.

Lynsey Anderson, Lynsey Anderson Support Worker  

Lynsey has achieved outstanding outcomes for the people she supports by building strong, trusting relationships with families and loved ones. Her collaborative approach ensures everyone’s voice is valued, creating a truly holistic support network. Through compassion, communication, and partnership working, Lynsey consistently helps people achieve meaningful progress and improved quality of life.

The Support Worker Award (Not for Profit)

Marissa McQuiston, Autism Initiatives

Through her own personal experience and understanding of autism, she brings genuine empathy, patience, and compassion to every individual she supports. She takes the time to understand each person’s needs, routines, and anxieties, always ensuring they feel safe, respected, and empowered. Her commitment is shown in the thoughtful things others may never see — from personally checking walking routes in advance to make sure they are safe, accessible, and suitable, to constantly advocating for the people she supports to have the best possible experiences and opportunities. Her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication make a life-changing difference every single day, and she is truly deserving of this award.

The Managers Award 

Brenda Campbell, Autism Initiatives

The judges were inspired by her passion, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to transforming lives. She shared a powerful story demonstrating how her team’s dedication has created exceptional outcomes for a person they support, while also fostering a happier, more engaged workforce. A truly outstanding leader who embodies compassion, vision, and positive change.

Chelsea Lewis, The Cedar Foundation

Chelsea’s journey is truly inspirational. Her calm, mature, and values-led leadership style creates an environment where innovation, teamwork, and person-centred practice thrive. It was a pleasure to hear her reflections on overcoming challenges and developing as a leader. Chelsea has transformed lives through her work while building a compassionate and empowered team culture. Well done, Chelsea.

The Senior Manager Award

Maria Waugh, Autism Initiatives

Innovation and service excellence are at the heart of Maria’s work. Her passion, creativity, and drive are inspiring as she leads the development of new services and opportunities. It is wonderful to see the energy, commitment, and vision she brings, creating exciting momentum and delivering positive change for the people who benefit.

Mark Breslin, Informing Choices NI

Mark’s passion and dedication to creating a meaningful, lasting difference in the lives of the people he supports are truly inspiring. His commitment to driving positive change and delivering impactful work is exceptional. It is fantastic to hear about the innovative projects he is leading and the positive outcomes being achieved.

The Making a Difference Award (Individual)

Cara McShane, Newry Down and Mourne District Council

Cara provides unwavering commitment to supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and autism through her 1:1 and group swimming sessions and creates a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Through her work, she has transformed swimming from a recreational activity into a powerful tool for building confidence, communication skills, independence, physical development, and emotional wellbeing. She demonstrates remarkable insight into the unique challenges faced by children with SEN and autism, adapting her teaching methods with creativity, sensitivity, and skill to ensure every child can participate and succeed.

Kelly Kerr, Northern Health and Social Care Trust

Kelly demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication in her role supporting carers who provide care to individuals with learning disabilities.  Kelly’s approach is her commitment to engaging with carers on a regular basis, actively seeking their feedback and ensuring that their views are heard. More importantly, Kelly takes meaningful action on this feedback, driving improvements that enhance the quality and effectiveness of service delivery. Kelly has taken full ownership of the service and has been instrumental in its transformation. Through her initiative, drive, and determination, Kelly has developed and implemented a wide range of resources, materials, and training programmes that have strengthened support for carers and improved outcomes across the service. Kelly’s ability to lead change, empower carers, and continuously strive for excellence has made a significant and lasting impact to those she supports. 

The Making a Difference Award (Team)

The Menopause Project, Informing Choices NI

A truly outstanding project led by an inspiring individual. Deborah’s passion, commitment, and dedication shine through in the work she is doing and the positive impact being created. Her efforts are making a meaningful difference, and it is wonderful to see such a strong example of innovation, compassion, and positive change.

Healthier Me Ambassadors, Mencap NI

What an inspiring group of people. It is truly wonderful to hear about the positive difference the Ambassadors are making within their local communities and across Northern Ireland. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to creating meaningful change are exceptional, and their work is a fantastic example of the power of inclusion and advocacy.

The Breaking Down Barriers Award

Kayleigh Hughes, Mainstay DRP

Kayleigh displayed exceptional leadership and unwavering advocacy. Kayleigh consistently champions individuals’ rights, ensures their voices are heard and reinforces that they matter and are capable. Through her determination to challenge traditional approaches, she creates opportunities that empower individuals to develop independence, gain valuable life skills, and achieve their full potential.

Susie Vint, Happy Days, Ashton Community Trust

Susie has genuine passion, dedication, and commitment to the people she supports, and this shone through in her interview. As the manager of a service providing tailored support and opportunities for young adults with learning disabilities and/or autism, Susie provides a safe, comforting space, demonstrates warmth, sincerity, and outstanding leadership and passion. Through her person-centred approach, she has created meaningful and unforgettable experiences that have enriched the lives of those she supports, helping them to grow in confidence, independence and fulfilment.

The Sporting Chance Award 

DJ Elite Coaching, Sports Coaching

The organisation has achieved so much in such a short time.  The coaches are clearly passionate about their roles and are making a huge difference in the lives of the many individuals they support. They are going from strength to strength, expanding and adapting as they go. Great work.

The Positive Behaviour Support Award 

The Mews, The Cedar Foundation

The team’s dedication to person-centred, proactive support is creating meaningful, lasting change for the people they support. By prioritising understanding, collaboration, and co-production, they have moved beyond reactive approaches to empower individuals and promote independence. Their commitment to learning, partnership working, and continuous improvement demonstrates exceptional practice and positive outcomes.

The Supporting People with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities Award 

David McLaughlin, Brothers Autism

David McLaughlin, founder of Brothers Autism Social Enterprise, demonstrates exceptional commitment to transforming the lives of adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Drawing on over 20 years of experience and autistic-led insight, David delivers innovative, person-centred support that promotes inclusion, connection, and active citizenship. His vision, dedication, and advocacy are creating lasting positive change.

The Outstanding Contribution Award 

Four G 

Inspirational people, an inspirational vision, and a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities come together to support one another. Jonathon’s passion, leadership, and commitment are truly remarkable, demonstrating the positive impact of inclusion, collaboration, and compassion. He is an inspiring role model, showing others what is possible.

Dr Agnes Lunny OBE, Positive Futures 

A lifetime dedicated to making a difference within the sector, bringing together local and national voices to create positive change. Agnes’ inspirational career reflects a deep commitment to values, culture, and inclusion. Through passion and leadership, Agnes has empowered people to achieve transformational lives and helped shape a more compassionate, person-centred future.