Working in partnership with many different organisations, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland supports adults with a range of intellectual, physical disabilities and mental health issues, through their supported living, residential and day care programmes. 
My role within the Council for Social Witness is to look after the Disability Services which are located in Willowbrook in Coleraine and Aaron House in Dundonald as well as Peacehaven in Wicklow and Lawnfield House in Newcastle (pictured, below).
Each home within NI is registered by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) and in Ireland it is the Health Information and Quality Authority (HQIA). Their roles are to inspect properties to ensure we are delivering safe, effective, well led and compassionate care.
Within PCI, my role is to ensure, not only are these legislative minimum standards met, but that the quality of care within our homes and facilities, is well above this and all our residents and service users are valued and treated with dignity, respect and understanding despite their disabilities.
One facility that I would like to highlight during Learning Disability Week is Lawnfield House.
It is a purpose built home for residents with a number of disabilities to stay for a short period, or permanently. Bookings for short term respite are made both privately and directly from all five Health Care Trusts. Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in County Down, it is the perfect location for a respite break with stunning views up to Slieve Donard and across the Irish Sea.
Lawnfield also has a domiciliary service within the grounds and the following piece is about one young man who explained to his key worker Sandra, how the transition from residential to supported living has proven a very positive experience:
So tell me Daniel, how long have you lived in Lawnfield House?
I lived in the main building for two years and moved to the bungalow with my brother in February 2018. I now have more independence yet I still feel supported. I get help from Sandra and the other staff with managing my money and shopping.
I go to college and recently completed my skills for life course. I attend a jobs club and also work on Wednesday afternoons in a shop in Newcastle.
Learning Disability Week 2019 focuses on sport and inclusion. Are you a fan of sports?
Yes, I like to be active – it is good for me to be out meeting people and keeping fit. I enjoy swimming and bowling and I play basketball on Tuesdays with my Special Olympics team called ‘Shooting Stars’. We recently won a tournament and received gold medals (pictured right).
On Thursday I go to a youth club in Ballynahinch and on Fridays I go to another club, where we do a range of activities. I also completed my Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award which I am really proud of.
Finally Daniel, What is your favourite thing about living in Lawnfield House?
I would have to say that my favourite thing about living here is that I have my own space and independence. I enjoy having my friends around.
In addition to this and to mark the end of Learning Disability Week, we will be also be officially opening a sensory garden at Aaron House tomorrow, Saturday 22nd June. We know the new additions to the outdoor space, will enhance our residents and service users experience with the purpose built water features, furniture, sensory paths and a bedding area for plants.
If you would like to enquire about booking a respite place at Lawnfield House, then please do not hesitate to contact the team there on +44 (0)28 4372 6860.
You can download a brochure on the facilities available here.