Downpatrick Hollyview Resource Centre Marks Disabled Day
The International Day of Disabled Persons has been recognised by Hollyview Resource Centre in Downpatrick
The remarkable talents and creativity of Hollyview Resource Centre’s Service Users was to the fore this week as the Team marked International Day of Disabled Persons.
From handmade crafts to bespoke festive sleighs and snowmen to welcome in the Christmas period, Service Users have been hard work putting their shoulders to the wheel to ensure that all their hand carved and hand painted pieces are ready for Downshire Hospital’s upcoming Carol Service.
Service User, Christopher Craig, described how much he loves coming to the Centre. “I love coming to Hollyview, it gives me a chance to get into the community and meet other people. I have learned loads of new skills since coming here,” said Christopher.
“My favourite thing to do here is to help people and I really enjoy gardening. Hollyview is really close to me. If I did not have it, I would not know where I would be.”
Hollyview Resource Centre’s Martin Burns explained how the Hub offers Service Users a chance to, “Partake in activities that encourages their independence, a place where they can learn new skills in woodwork and horticulture.”
“Everyday is different for our Service Users. They could be out in the garden here at Downshire or in the woodwork or craft room. We also have days out which I know our Service Users really enjoy,” said Martin.
“The amount of work that has and is being done here is amazing. Our Service Users deserve every chance that everybody else gets and that is the main thing.”
Support Worker at Hollyview Resource Centre, Shona McCullough added, “You can see our Service Users grow in confidence as each week passes, this is their workplace and it does not take them long to settle in.
“It is so important to get the message out there that we are all the same, we are all trying to get through our daily lives. We are all such a Team here at Hollyview.
“We are all learning from each other and everyone has so much to give, whether you have a learning disability or not. It is so important for everyone to understand that.”
