Eric Roberts and his nephew Oisín join Ireland’s Autism Charity's Same Chance Walk

Donegal’s Eric Roberts and his nephew Oisín joined Ireland’s Autism Charity- AsIAm - at Malahide Castle today for the Same Chance Walk.

Social media personality Eric, from Glen, Carrigart, is the official ambassador for this year’s Same Chance Walk and has used his platform to raise awareness and share his lived experience, both as a former Special Needs Assistant and a passionate Autism advocate inspired by his family.

“Today’s walk wasn’t just about raising awareness – it was about showing up and saying that Autistic people deserve the same chance in every part of life,” he said. “It was amazing to see so many families, friends and supporters come together to walk for real change.”

Walks also took place today in Lough Key Forest Park, Co Roscommon, with additional local community walks happening across the country throughout the month.

They were joined by US actor and comedian Rosie O’Donnell, alongside her 12-year-old daughter, Clay, among many more.

The flagship event supported by PTSB aimed at promoting Autism inclusion and raising vital funds for services across Ireland. The day saw over 1,000 people walk for Autism and enjoy the activities and entertainment in a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

The walk took place against the backdrop of AsIAm’s newly launched Same Chance Report 2025, which highlights the significant barriers still faced by Autistic people and their families across Irish society – in education, healthcare, employment, and community life.

The report, which captures the lived experience of over 1,400 Autistic people and their families, revealed that 86% of respondents feel they do not have the same chance as non-autistic people in Ireland. Public attitudes, long waiting lists, inadequate support, and financial pressures were among the major challenges cited.

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The Same Chance Walk for Autism is supported by PTSB, who continue to champion inclusion as part of their community engagement efforts. Funds raised will support AsIAm’s vital work, helping to deliver services and advocacy for the more than 1 in 27 people in Ireland who are Autistic.