Christine McShane lives in Cedar’s Supported Living in West Belfast. With support from her local Get Active Community Inclusion Officer, Meroe McGale, she sourced a voluntary placement at the Age NI day centre in Dunmurry. Cedar’s Get Active project supports individuals with learning disabilities living in West Belfast experience reduced social isolation by accessing community-based activity.

Christine began volunteering one afternoon a week in February 2019. The volunteer role involves befriending the older people who attend, making delicious refreshments and playing bingo with the Age NI day centre service users.

Age NI senior staff member Margaret (pictured) said:

“Christine is an absolute joy and a godsend. All the clients just love to see her coming into the day centre to volunteer.”

She added:

“Both myself and the rest of the staff are delighted at her dedication and commitment.”

Christine has been enjoying the volunteering role so much that she has decided to increase to two afternoons a week.

Community Inclusion Officer, Meroe said:

“Christine really is a star and everyone at Cedar would like to wish all the best as she increases her hours to offer even more support people in the community.”

Cedar delivers a range of services that enable people with disabilities to get the most out of life and to be fully included in their communities. Services are centred around the individual needs of each person and are delivered throughout Northern Ireland. Their vision is inclusive society for all and they support individuals and families living with disability, autism and brain injury to live the lives they choose.

The Get Active project is funded by Nationwide Building Society’s Community Grants programme, managed by UK Community Foundation.

If you would like to know more about Living Options services and Supported Living please visit our dedicated page. Keep up to date with Cedar on Facebook and Twitter.