Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund Fuels Music-Based Autism Programme for Toddlers and Families
(IN SHORT) Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund has awarded funding to Kids Together Belfast’s “Music and Me” programme, which supports two- to four-year-olds on the autism spectrum or awaiting diagnosis. The eight-week course uses music to develop social skills, communication, and emotional regulation. In the final fortnight, parents participate to learn techniques for reinforcing progress at home. Grainne Loughery of Belfast City Airport underscored the airport’s commitment to community and family wellbeing, while Kids Together CEO Pamela Hughes highlighted the programme’s impact and the vital role of the funding. Since 2009, the airport’s fund has granted over £656,000 to 231+ local organisations, underlining its dedication to social inclusion in Greater Belfast and North Down.
(PRESS RELEASE) BELFAST, 2025-Jul-11 — /Travel PR News/ — Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund has granted crucial support to Kids Together Belfast’s “Music and Me” programme, tailored for two- to four-year-olds who have an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis or are undergoing assessment. Through structured musical activities in a nurturing space, the initiative nurtures social interaction, bolsters communication skills, and fosters emotional development.
Grainne Loughery, Environment and Sustainability Executive at Belfast City Airport, remarked:
“Investing in our community is essential, and we’re delighted to back a programme that empowers families. ‘Music and Me’ equips young children with vital communication and emotional tools, while also drawing families closer together. We’re proud to partner with Kids Together Belfast as they guide these children toward a more confident future.”
Over eight weeks, participants spend the first six sessions focusing on milestones like making eye contact, sharing attention, regulating sensory input, expressing emotions, and tapping into creativity through music-based play. In the concluding two weeks, parents and carers join the fun, acquiring hands-on strategies to reinforce their child’s progress at home.
Pamela Hughes, CEO of Kids Together Belfast, added:
“Belfast City Airport’s Community Fund has been instrumental in making ‘Music and Me’ possible. This funding enables us to deliver a vital service, helping children on the autism spectrum—and their families—build strong foundations for lifelong growth. The programme not only creates connections but also empowers parents with tools to support development beyond the classroom. We’re deeply grateful for our ongoing collaboration with the airport.”
The “Music and Me” programme exemplifies Belfast City Airport Community Fund’s broader mission: enhancing family wellbeing, promoting social inclusion, and enriching lives across Greater Belfast and North Down. Since 2009, the Fund has contributed over £656,000 to more than 231 local charities and community organisations.
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SOURCE: Belfast City Airport
