The Duchess of Edinburgh visits Northern Ireland

Her Royal Highness officially opened the National Autistic Society's new state-of-the-art centre for autistic people and their families in Randalstown, County Antrim. The charity, of which The Duchess is Patron, provides essential support to families from across the region.

Her Royal Highness toured the new centre, which will provide day services for autistic adults with high support and complex needs. The Duchess learnt more about support available, including adult mentoring, youth clubs, skills programmes, and stay and play opportunities. 

Her Royal Highness joined sensory play activities with young adults who use the centre and met families who were featured in the National Autistic Society's Forgotten Voices campaign and the BBC documentary, I Am Not Okay. 

Next, The Duchess attended an event at Randalstown library to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women who have completed the Women in Leadership Programme across the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough. 

The programme is designed to empower women to grow as leaders in their families, communities, and workplaces. 

Her Royal Highness also met the members of the library reading group and representatives from Tidy Randalstown, an intergenerational award-winning community group. 

Finally, The Duchess met members of the community at Walkways Community Centre. Her Royal Highness heard about the diverse range of programmes and support available to locals, with an emphasis on wellbeing, connection, and skill development.

The Duchess watched the Trinity Theatre Arts Group perform one of their award-winning dance routines.

Joining a group of local ladies who are part of a crochet and knitting club called the 'Happy Hookers', Her Royal Highness learnt more about the supportive environment this community group provides.

As Patron, The Duchess also met Guide Dog representatives who are currently celebrating 40 years of the charity in Northern Ireland.