Praxis Care

9 hours ago

What do you do when a pizza-making masterclass is a huge hit? You go back for another slice! 🍕

In June, our Day Service in Conlig returned to Little Wing after a small group of the people we support enjoyed the experience so much last year. This time, even more people got the chance to roll up their sleeves, get creative with toppings and make their own delicious pizzas.

Among those taking part were Sean Paul and Emily Fryers, both of whom attend the day service. Sean Paul described his pizza as "very tasty", while Emily said her favourite part was "putting the sauce and the cheese on the pizza."

Reflecting on the day, Support Worker John Gibson said: "I enjoyed seeing how much everyone enjoyed it, especially those who don't normally choose to go on outings."

A huge thank you to the team at Little Wing for making everyone feel so welcome. Days like these are about much more than pizza – they're about trying new things, building confidence, making friends and creating great memories.
❤️🍕 ... See MoreSee Less

Praxis Care

1 day ago

When Mark had an idea to help the environment, he didn't stop at talking about it. He made it happen.

What started as an idea for a recycling scheme at our Supported Living Service in Ballymena has grown into a thriving social enterprise that is bringing people together, building skills, and making a positive impact on the local community.

Mark has been at the heart of the project from the very beginning. He helped prepare the site for a can crusher, organised collection boxes, created signage, and reached out to local businesses to encourage their involvement.

His passion for the environment was the driving force behind the project.

“I wanted to help the environment,” says Mark. “I'm proud of making connections with local businesses. I was very nervous to start, but staff supported me with making leaflets and I stepped out of my comfort zone. Now I go on my own and take leaflets to new businesses.”

Mark has also played an important role in encouraging other tenants to get involved. From organising responsibilities to helping people with their rota days, he has helped make sure everyone has the opportunity to contribute.

Seeing others take part is one of the things he is most proud of.

“It makes me feel happy. I feel very proud,” says Mark.

The impact of the project has extended far beyond recycling. Working in partnership with Bryson Recycling, the initiative enables people supported by Praxis Care to earn money through collecting and crushing cans. It has created meaningful opportunities to develop skills, build confidence, connect with the local community and take pride in contributing to a successful social enterprise.

As Stacey Reidy, Team Leader at our Ballymena Supported Living Service, explains:

“The development of this social enterprise provides meaningful opportunities for our tenants to build skills, engage with the local community, work as a team and experience a real sense of pride and achievement. We are able to adapt this project to enable everyone on scheme to take part.”

The project's success has also inspired wider environmental action, with tenants signing up to adopt a local spot and taking part in weekly litter picks.

For Mark personally, taking the lead has been transformative. His confidence, independence and self-esteem have grown significantly, and his enthusiasm continues to inspire others around him.

It is this that has earned Mark the Co-production Award at Praxis Care's Northern Ireland Celebrating Success Awards.

This Learning Disability Pride Month, we're proud to celebrate Mark and the valuable contribution he makes to his local community. 💙 ... See MoreSee Less

Praxis Care

5 days ago

🧁🍓 Lemon and strawberry tartlets, chocolate brookies and plenty of teamwork were on the menu at Crobally Day Service recently.

The people we support took part in both a regular baking class and a gluten-free baking class, creating a range of delicious treats while learning new skills and working together in the kitchen.

Among those taking part was Colin, who was recognised with a Community Involvement award at our 2025 Celebrating Success Awards. The baking classes are just one of many activities he enjoys taking part in as part of his local community.

The sessions, facilitated by Finnola, include both regular and gluten-free options, helping to ensure everyone can get involved and enjoy the experience.
It was a great opportunity to try new recipes, spend time together and, of course, enjoy some well-earned treats. 👏💙 ... See MoreSee Less