Ards Local Society

Public benefits

The Ards Society is a charitable group who provides relief to adults with a learning disability and to their parents/carers within the geographical area previously known as Ards Borough Council. The Society is well know and networks within the community with those who are connection with people with a learning disability. The Ards Society

receives very positive feedback from people with a learning disability, their parents and carers. The Society bought and currently owns and maintains its own premises, in accordance with RQIA regulations. These premises are to benefit the population of people with a learning disability within the Ards Borough Council area. The premises is also provided to the local Gateway club in order for people with a learning disability to have leisure and social time. This enables respite for parents and carers which is very important. The Ards Society fundraises for the upkeep of the premises and also awards organisations whose activities benefit people with a learning disability within its area. The Society is intended for people with a learning disability,their parents, carers and friends by the provision of help, advice and support. This is demonstrated though information, advice and support for those who are connected to people with a learning disability. As mentioned above the Society provides facilities for people with a learning disability to have day care during the day and also leisure opportunities in the form of a Social club in the evening time. This benefits the members as it is an opportunity to meet new people and build friendships. It also benefits parents and carers as a form of respite or alternatively a support network where they can meet other parents and carers. The Ards Society also organises events throughout the year for members, parents and carers. There is no potential harm that could be caused as a result of the Ards Society. In terms of private benefit each member involved with the Society can build upon their knowledge and experience which they can use transferrable in other environments. Each beneficiary will have and improved quality of life through the provision of facilities for recreation and leisure time. Parents and carers will also receive private benefit as they receive specialised support and advice to enable and empower them to be more confident in their role as a carer. Furthermore they will receive respite as the Society works closely with the local leisure opportunity for people with a learning disability.

What your organisation does

Ards Local Society are solely responsible for the premises of Avondale and permit other organisations to use the premises if it benefits people with a learning disability within the local community.