Celebrating Excellence at the National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards 2025

Sep 26, 2025

TILII posing with their award!

The National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards 2025

ARC NI was delighted to attend and support the National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards 2025 in Northern Ireland – a night dedicated to celebrating excellence, passion, and innovation in care and support.

These awards shine a light on individuals and organisations who go above and beyond to improve the lives of people with a learning disability and autism. From frontline staff to leaders and community champions, every nominee represents the very best in the sector.

The evening began with a drinks reception, setting the scene for celebration. Guests were then treated to a fabulous performance by the Equal Notes Choir, before sitting down to enjoy a delicious meal.

The Awards

The highlight of the night – the awards ceremony – followed, recognising incredible people and organisations across Northern Ireland. To round off the evening, everyone hit the dancefloor for a fantastic disco with a DJ, bringing the celebrations to life.

We were especially proud to see Team TILII (Telling It Like It Is) win the Breaking Down Barriers Award. TILII members are tireless advocates, ensuring their voices and the voices of others are heard. Their commitment to empowerment and inclusion makes a real difference in our communities. Well Done TILII!

Five people stand smiling in front of a gold sequin backdrop at the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability, celebrating with a “WINNER” certificate and dressed in semi-formal attire.

TILII Members from left to right: Michael, David, Joseph, Louise (ARC NI) and Richella.

Check out some of the snaps we got during the ceremony below.

Five people stand on stage at the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability event, smiling for a photo. One man uses crutches while another holds up a fist in celebration, with a lit display in the background.

Four people in formal attire stand on stage, smiling and holding an award. Colorful lights and a large screen hint at an awards ceremony, as part of the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability celebration.

At a formal event, a man in a suit shakes hands with a woman in a long navy dress and heels on stage under blue lights—echoing the professional spirit of the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability.

Two people in formal attire stand on a small stage, posing with an award. Colorful lights dance overhead as a screen displays graphics, marking the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability at this formal event.

A woman and man stand on stage during an award ceremony in a decorated ballroom, colorful lights overhead. The large screen features "HR MANAGER AWARD" and highlights TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability.

Two people stand on a stage, smiling and holding an award, as part of the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability. A photographer captures the moment with a screen displaying text and a woman's face behind them.

At a TILII Roving Report event, people dressed formally sit at round tables in a banquet hall with a large chandelier. Some clap and smile, while others stand to celebrate. The festive atmosphere echoes the spirit of the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability.

A man in a suit and a woman in a green formal dress reach toward each other on stage under colorful spotlights, as part of the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability in a banquet hall with wooden paneling and parquet floor.

During the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability, a woman in a black dress receives an award from a man in a suit and red tie on stage, both smiling as a photographer captures the moment near a podium.

A man stands on a stage with a woman at a podium during the TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability.

And the 2025 Winners are…

Barry Smith (Barry’s Beats) – winner of The People’s Award, spreading joy with his inclusive disco nights.
Kilcreggan Homes LTD – winner of The Employer Award, recognised for their inspiring, person-centred support.
Nuala Deans (Connected Health Group) – winner of The Newcomer Award, making an incredible impact in her first leadership role.
Shonene O’Connor (The Cedar Foundation) – winner of The Support Worker Award, praised for her warmth and dedication.
Magda Ostrowska (Kilcreggan Homes Ltd) – winner of The Frontline Leader Award, a shining example of compassionate leadership.
Deborah McGinn (Informing Choices NI) – winner of Making a Difference (Individual), for her tireless advocacy and passion.
Healthier Me Ambassadors (Mencap NI) – winner of Making a Difference Team, breaking new ground in accessibility and education.
Rachel Lewendon (Positive Futures) – winner of The Positive Behaviour Support Award, recognised for her empowering approach.
Kathryn Coey (Praxis Care) – winner of The Outstanding Contribution Award, celebrating her dedication and creativity in person-centred care.

A Huge Well Done to Everyone

The event was more than an awards ceremony – it was a chance to recognise the power of compassion, teamwork, and innovation across Northern Ireland. ARC NI is proud to stand alongside all the nominees and winners who make such a difference every single day.

Congratulations to everyone involved – you inspire us all!

A special thank you to the organisers and partners of the National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards for creating such a meaningful celebration. ARC NI was proud to help promote the event and will continue to champion the voices of people with a learning disability and autism across Northern Ireland.

Check out the professional photos taken at the event below. Credit to Tony Atille for the fabulous images.