Ardarragh Celebrates 10 Years of Empowering Lives With a Grand Tea Party

30th November 2023
Thomas Byrne, Eric McCavery, Tashka Ilvena

Ardarragh Day Centre, nestled in the heart of the Downshire Estate, celebrated its 10th anniversary with a Grand Tea Party for service users, their families and staff.

The Tea Party marked the centre’s 10 year journey and provided an opportunity to commemorate this remarkable milestone. Service Users, families and staff thoroughly enjoyed the celebrations, which acknowledged the achievements that Ardarragh has fostered over the past decade.

In 2012, a building in the Downshire Estate was refurbished and modernised and the newly christened Ardarragh Day Centre officially opened its doors in October 2013.  The centre’s mission is to provide a nurturing space for individuals with physical disabilities.

One of Ardarragh’s unique features is its focus on therapeutic and sensory activities tailored for individuals with physical disabilities. These activities not only promote physical well-being, but also provide a space for self-expression and personal growth.

Service User, Anthony Sim, who attended Market Street Day Centre before moving to Ardarragh, had a wonderful day celebrating the anniversary.  He said, “I can’t believe how the last 10 years have flown by.  Ardarragh is so bright and welcoming.   I love coming to Ardarragh, it keeps me in touch with my friends.  The staff are so helpful and lovely”.

Paul Reid, who attended Market Street before moving to Ardarragh Centre 10 years ago added, “The Centre is great, it’s good to get out of the house and give my family a break.  I love going out for bus runs, shopping trips and lunches.  There’s always something to do and the staff help me when I need it”.

Delighted to mark this wonderful milestone, Day Care Worker, Diane Hanna-McKay commented, “We are immensely proud to celebrate this achievement and to reflect on the positive impact Ardarragh Day Centre has had on the lives of our Service Users.  Our Grand Tea Party celebration was a way to acknowledge the last decade.”