With the unwavering support of our incredible members, the generosity of our supporters, and the dedication of our volunteers, staff, and board members, 2024 was another impactful year. Together, we extended our reach and continued to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Here’s a closer look at what we’ve been doing…
Creating opportunities, and providing a sense of personal freedom and choice.
We’re a UK registered charity working with and supporting a wide range of people, aged 10 years and upwards, who have a diagnosis of autism (which can also be called Autism Spectrum Disorder, Autistic Spectrum Condition, Asperger Syndrome, or High Functioning Autism) as well as their families, guardians and carers in Greater Manchester.
We offer a wide range of specialist support services to people with autism and their families.
Flexible individual support to suit your requirements and needs.
Social and leisure activities and events for young people and adults.
Support and advice for parents and carers of autistic children.
Advice and guidance for anyone who would like to find out more about autism.
Our community understands the challenges that autism can bring. We have the knowledge, experience and passion to help individuals and families work through them towards a happier place with autism as a part of their daily lives.
We loved celebrating some amazing moments in January! Click here to relive the highlights.
At I AM, we stepped up to meet the growing demand for workplace support for neurodivergent individuals. Launched in February, our new Workplace Needs Services were designed to empower talent, foster inclusion, and create thriving work environments where everyone could shine. For more information, click here here.
Simon Hartley shared his inspiring journey as a volunteer coach at AFC Urmston Meadowside, guiding young athletes in pan-disability football. His dedication creates a supportive environment, leading to many joyful moments and inspiring others!
Click here to find out more.
We delivered a talk at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association on Neurodiversity at Work, where we explored what neurodiversity is and how it affects adults, considered its impact in the workplace, and discussed actionable steps to create a more neurodiversity-friendly environment.
From exhilarating karting at Chaos Karts to fun-filled Nerf Action Xperience, we've had an exciting month celebrating community and creativity! Join us as we continue the adventure, with amazing events like delicious lunches at Zouk and Las Iguanas, plus the HOME – Manchester Open Exhibition! 🚗🍴🎨 Let’s wrap up February on a high note – check out all the activities and get involved!
Click here to find out more.
We were delighted to receive ongoing support from the Garfield Weston Foundation. Click here to learn more.
Last year, we were blown away by the awesome donations of gaming consoles and equipment that made a huge difference for our members. Gaming has always been a firm favourite, and those contributions brought so much fun and happiness to everyone involved. A massive thank-you to everyone who donated – you’re amazing!
Got an old console or games lying around? Don’t let them gather dust – pass them on and help spread the fun! We’re always looking to grow our collection and make gaming even better for our community.
If you’re up for donating, just drop Cereasha a message at admin@i-am-autism.org.uk. 🎮✨
In March, we went all out for an unforgettable celebration - Janine’s 60th birthday! The milestone event was brimming with laughter, joy, and heartfelt moments as friends and colleagues gathered to honour her special day. With delicious food, a stunning cake, and a few celebratory toasts, it was a truly memorable occasion and the perfect way to mark Janine’s fabulous big 6-0 in style! 🎉🎂🥂
March was packed with unforgettable moments! From the Yorkshire Sculpture Park to Alex’s birthday at Tampopo, and the exciting Nerf Action Xperience – it was a month of fun, connection, and community. Thanks to everyone who joined us! Stay tuned for more! 🎉🎂🥂 Click here to find out more. 
In April, we were delighted to hear that Nathan Harrop, Lead (Career Experience) at Apple, organised a bake sale to raise funds for our cause. Inspired by his autistic son, Nathan wanted to support the vital work we do for individuals and families in the local community. Adding an extra touch of generosity, Apple matched the donations raised, doubling the impact! A huge thank-you to Nathan, his family, and Apple for their incredible support—it truly means the world to us! 🍰❤️
Feeling inspired? If you'd like to raise funds to support autistic individuals and their families, we’ve got you covered! Download our FREE Fundraising Pack for ideas and guidance by clicking here. 🌟
Click here to find out more.
April was a blast! From the Big Day Out in Llandudno to fun Paint A Pot sessions and great times at Hard Rock Cafe and Freight Island, our 18+ members made unforgettable memories. It was a month full of connection, creativity, and laughter.
Click here to find out more.
In May, for Mental Health Awareness Week, we focused on breaking down the stigma around mental health by promoting understanding, empathy, and the importance of prioritising personal well-being. Our goal was to inspire a culture of compassion and self-care.
With this year’s theme centered on movement, we highlighted the powerful link between physical activity and mental well-being. We encouraged our members to embrace an active lifestyle, reminding everyone that even small steps can make a big difference for both body and mind.💪❤️
Want to learn more? Click here
In May, we said goodbye to our inspiring CEO, Helen Boden, who dedicated nearly four years of passionate service to our charity. ❤️
Read Helen's parting message by clicking here
May was packed with exciting events! From the 18+ Big Day Out walk at Hollingworth Lake to the Manchester Flower Festival and Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens, it was a month full of adventure, laughter, and lasting memories. We celebrated community and connection in style!
Click here to find out more.
In May, we’re excited to welcome our new CEO, Nick Foster! Click here to learn more about Nick and his vision for I AM.
In May, we bid farewell to the amazing Nikki, our incredible administrator, as she made the decision to work closer to home. ❤️
Our CEO’s New Role? Attic Cleaning Extraordinaire!
It turned out that Nick Foster, our new CEO, didn’t just lead I AM - he also tackled the tough jobs, like cleaning the attic!
While it wasn’t the most glamorous task, it was a great reminder of how rolling up our sleeves and pitching in—whether scrubbing floors, hosting events, or supporting our members - keeps I AM the incredible community it is. Volunteering with I AM takes all kinds of contributions, big and small, to make a real difference.
If you’re inspired by Nick’s can-do attitude and want to get involved, we’d love to hear from you! For volunteering opportunities at I AM, contact us at 0161 866 8483 or enquiries@i-am-autism.org.uk.
P.S. If Nick looks a bit tired in this photo, it’s because the attic is now spotless. 😉 ❤️
We’re excited to share that I AM recently got a fresh update with new carpets installed throughout our space! The new look has brightened up the environment, making it even more welcoming for our members, staff, and visitors. This little upgrade is a big step in keeping I AM a comfortable and inviting place for everyone who walks through our doors.
June 2024 was unforgettable for the I AM community! From exciting boat rides at Speedwell Cavern to fun bowling at Tenpin and delicious meals at Wagamama and Topps Buffet, every moment was a highlight. Our 18+ Friday groups enjoyed lasting memories and new connections. Thanks to everyone who joined – it was a month full of fun and friendship!
Click here to find out more
In June we did another successful Walk for Autism and it was a great success. To find out more and see pictures from the day, click here.
In June, we’re excited to welcome our new Administration Officer, Cereasha Bailey! Click here to learn more about Cereasha.
July was packed with exciting events! From the lively Trafford Pub Night to the unforgettable Big Day Out at Buxton, we celebrated community and connection. Members gathered for great food at Dukes 92 Grill and shared bittersweet moments at Helen and Nicci’s Leaving Do. It was a month to remember!
Click here to find out more.
I AM secures ongoing funding from Zochonis Charitable Trust. Click here to find out more.
August 2024 was a month full of unforgettable moments at I AM Autism! From thrilling days out like the Yorkshire Wildlife Park adventure to the scenic canoeing on Bridgewater Canal, our 18+ members had an exciting time exploring, learning, and connecting. The Heights of Abraham exploration and Trafford Pub Night were just the icing on the cake, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We celebrated a month packed with joy, laughter, and community spirit—thank you to everyone who joined us!
Click here to find out more.
We were thrilled to welcome Andrew Swarbrick, RHS Community Outreach Manager, to I AM's Resource Centre in August to launch an exciting collaboration aimed at transforming our back garden.
The transformation kicked off in late summer, starting with creative input from both RHS and I AM. Throughout the project, our goal has been to actively involve members in shaping the garden's design and creation.
If you’d like to share your ideas, we’d love to hear from you! Please click here to complete the survey.
Emilie Knight, an abstract expressionist painter from Jersey, has embraced her autism diagnosis and turned it into a powerful creative force. Her art, created with hands and feet, reflects her unique perspective. Emilie’s recent solo show at JARO Gallery was a resounding success, highlighting how art can break barriers and raise awareness.
Click here to find out more.
We were delighted to hear that one of our members' grandmothers chose to raise money for I AM. Find out more by clicking here.
In September 2024, proudly featured our dear friends and supporter Jonathan Cantliff, a neurodiversity and autism advocate and trainer, in our '10 Questions With...' series.
Click here to read the interview.
As September came to a close, we were thrilled to reflect on the unforgettable experiences shared by our I AM community. From exciting events like the 18+ Friday Group’s immersive Gamebox adventure to the moments of connection and joy we felt together, this month truly showcased the power of coming together.
Click here to find out more.
From earning her black belt at 12 to conquering the 2022 Taekwondo English Championships, Lindsey’s journey is one of strength and resilience. Now a 3rd-degree black belt and instructor, she’s inspiring others through martial arts and fitness. Read her inspiring story on I AM Autism and discover how she’s using her journey to empower others. 💪🏅
👉 Read More
We’re thrilled to share that in October 2024, our amazing Finance Officer, Janine Redgrove, completed the Manchester Half Marathon—raising over £1600 for I AM! Her dedication and determination have supported our efforts to revitalise our quiet/sensory room, creating a more supportive space for our members.
Thank you to everyone who donated and cheered Janine on. Your generosity continues to make a real difference in the lives of autistic individuals and their families.
In October 2024, I AM hosted a series of fun events that brought our community together. The 10-18 age group enjoyed sessions at Salford Youth Club and a Halloween party at Stretford Youth. Our 18+ members had a great time at NAMCO Funscape, Manchester Pub Night, a Halloween Party, and a Quarry Bank outing, all celebrating the season and fostering connections.
Click here to find out more.
A huge congratulations to two shining stars from the I AM Autism community: Lucy and Janine!
Lucy claimed the Trafford Young Volunteer Award for her inspiring work with The Little Green Sock Project, while Janine, our dedicated Finance Officer, earned the Fundraising Champion Award for her tireless efforts- culminating in her run at the Manchester Half Marathon in aid of I AM. Both were presented with their accolades by the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Eamonn O’Neal.
We could not have been prouder of their achievements and extended our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made Trafford an extraordinary place to live and work!
In December 2024, I AM Celebrating Autism in Greater Manchester proudly featured Councillor Tom Ross, Leader of Trafford Council, in their ‘10 Questions With…’ series! He shared his insights on autism support, inclusivity, and community-driven initiatives, highlighting Trafford’s commitment to empowering autistic individuals and their families.
Read the full interview by clicking here.
In December 2024, Nathan Copestake ran the Manchester Half Marathon to raise funds for I AM, inspired by his sister Ros's autism diagnosis in 2020. Motivated by the challenges their family faced, Nathan supported I AM for its impactful work in Greater Manchester, helping autistic individuals gain independence and confidence.
Click here to see how much Nathan raised.
Nick Foster, CEO of I AM, reflected on an inspiring year, expressing gratitude for all the support and progress made. He celebrated the Stretford Centre's success and highlighted the exciting future ahead for the community.
Click here to read more.
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