Queens University Belfast

A New Partnership with Queen’s University Belfast and a Stronger Voice for Families

As part of Fragile X Awareness Day on 10 October 2025, we are pleased to share a regional media feature that has been sent to all major newspapers and media outlets across Northern Ireland. This article is part of our continued work to shine a light on the lived experiences of families affected by Fragile X Syndrome and to highlight the importance of continued support, understanding, and research.

The timing of this feature is especially significant, as it coincides with the announcement of a landmark partnership between the Fragile X Society and Queen’s University Belfast. This collaboration marks a major step forward in strengthening our presence and support services in Northern Ireland, and in developing new opportunities for research and professional training in the field of Fragile X and related neurodevelopmental conditions.

Why Awareness Matters

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of learning disability and a known genetic cause of autism. It affects individuals in many different ways including challenges with communication, anxiety, sensory processing, and executive functioning, but often goes unrecognised, underdiagnosed, or misunderstood.

Raising awareness is not just about visibility. It’s about improving understanding among professionals, ensuring earlier diagnoses, supporting better access to education and services, and reducing the isolation that so many families experience.

By sharing this story with the public through trusted media channels, we hope to:

• Educate the wider public on the signs and impact of Fragile X

• Promote empathy and inclusion for families

• Highlight the urgent need for better support in health, education, and social care

• Celebrate the strength and resilience of the Fragile X community

Building Stronger Connections in Northern Ireland

This new partnership with Queen’s University Belfast will help bring together researchers, clinicians, educators, and families to share knowledge, build capacity, and drive innovation in the way Fragile X is understood and supported.

We are especially grateful to the families and local advocates who have been instrumental in bringing Fragile X into the spotlight in Northern Ireland and who continue to champion awareness in their communities, schools, and health settings.

We invite you to read the article and share it with your networks to help spread the message further.

Read the full article here:www.qub.ac.uk/News/Allnews/featured-research/queens-fragile-x-society-partnership-support-families.html

We would also love to hear from more families in Northern Ireland who may want to get involved in awareness, fundraising, or support initiatives. Please feel free to reach out to us at info@fragilex.org.uk

Thank you for standing with us this Fragile X Awareness Day and for helping us create a world where families feel seen, supported, and empowered.