Adult Support Services in Bangor, Ards & North Down
Empowering Young Lives In Bangor, Newtownards and across North Down
Strides Day Opportunities Service is dedicated to enhancing the lives of young people with additional needs through diverse and enriching activities in Bangor, Newtownards and across North Down. Weekly gym and swimming sessions, along with art and music groups, promote physical well-being and self-esteem. Community involvement fosters belonging and skill development, while work experience opportunities empower vocational skills and social integration. Life skills training ensures confidence and independence in daily life. Recreational activities, including bushcraft skills and nature walks, foster personal growth and connection with nature. Through these experiences, we aim to empower individuals with additional needs to lead fulfilling lives, promoting well-being and integration into society.
Contact us for more information on our services.
Our Mission
Strides Day Opportunities Service will focus on five key elements:
Physical Health and Wellbeing
Weekly gym and swimming sessions, along with engaging in art and music group sessions, offer numerous benefits for young people with additional needs. These activities promote physical well-being by improving fitness levels, coordination, and motor skills. Moreover, participating in sports and artistic endeavors can boost self-esteem and confidence as individuals experience personal achievements and successes. Art and music also provide avenues for self-expression and creativity, aiding in emotional regulation and communication skills development. Overall, these activities contribute to holistic growth and development, enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life for young people with additional needs.
Community Involvement
Community involvement, such as volunteering at local initiatives, holds significant benefits for young people with additional needs. Engaging in community service fosters a sense of belonging and social connection, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. It provides opportunities for skill development, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Moreover, volunteering allows individuals to contribute positively to their community, boosting self-esteem and confidence. Through meaningful interactions with others and the fulfillment of making a difference, young people with additional needs can develop a sense of purpose and accomplishment, enhancing their overall well-being and integration into society.
Weekly Work Experience Opportunities
Weekly work experience opportunities, strategically cultivated through robust connections within the local community, offer vital avenues for young people with additional needs to explore and develop their vocational skills. These placements provide hands-on learning experiences tailored to individual interests and capabilities, fostering confidence and independence. By immersing themselves in diverse work environments, individuals gain practical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and workplace etiquette. Moreover, these opportunities promote social integration, enhancing communication skills and fostering positive relationships with employers and colleagues. Ultimately, such experiences empower young people with additional needs to transition successfully into the workforce, paving the way for meaningful employment and greater self-sufficiency.
Life Skills
Life skills training, encompassing travel training, independent living skills, and communication skills, plays a crucial role in empowering young people with additional needs to navigate daily life with confidence and independence. Travel training equips them with the knowledge and abilities to use public transportation safely and efficiently, fostering autonomy and expanding opportunities for community engagement. Independent living skills, including cooking, cleaning, and managing finances, promote self-sufficiency and enhance quality of life. Furthermore, communication skills training aids in fostering meaningful connections, promoting self-advocacy, and facilitating successful interactions in various social and professional settings. Overall, mastering these essential life skills empowers individuals to lead fulfilling and autonomous lives.
Recreational Activities
Recreational activities encompassing bushcraft skills, nature walks, skill-building activities, horticulture at a local primary school, day trips, and career visits offer invaluable opportunities for young people with additional needs. Engaging in these diverse experiences promotes physical fitness, enhances cognitive abilities, and fosters a deeper connection with nature. Moreover, participating in group activities cultivates social skills, teamwork, and cooperation. These recreational pursuits also provide avenues for self-expression, creativity, and personal growth. By immersing themselves in these enriching activities, individuals with additional needs develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging, ultimately leading to enhanced well-being and fulfillment.
