Waterford’s Seán O’Neill was recognised at the AsIAm Autism Friendly Communities Awards 2025, held at the Mansion House, Dublin on Saturday.

The awards celebrate communities across Ireland that have demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering autism inclusion, understanding, and acceptance.

As already reported on WLR, Waterford City was recognised as Ireland’s first Autism Friendly City at the event.

As well as the Autism Friendly City Award, Waterford native Seán O’Neill, who is autistic, won the ‘Inclusive Events Award’ for his work in the community with the autistic community.

Seán (23) participates in and supports numerous initiatives, including with Waterford FC.

Adam Harris, CEO & Founder of AsIAm, said: “An autism-friendly community is one that sees, understands, and values autistic people. We are proud to recognise Waterford for its commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment and for the steps it has taken to ensure that autistic individuals and their families can participate fully in everyday life.”

Maolíosa Ní Chléirigh, Co Chair of Autism Friendly Waterford said “We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition from AsIam. Over the past three years, our community has worked together with various different groups and stakeholders to create an environment that is welcoming and inclusive for autistic individuals. We will continue to do so in the coming years.”

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