14/12/2023
Our Fresh Focus Day Opportunities is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this week with a ‘Winter Wonderland’ experience created by the Staff and Service Users, held in their new premises at Cross Street, Enniskillen with a special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus.
Margaret Mulligan Head of Service, Adult Learning Disability Services explained :
“The Fresh Focus service was established in November 2008, led by Patricia Griffith and a small staff team at Killadeas Day Care. This new day opportunities service was shaped by the recommendations of the Equal Lives Review, Opportunities for Change 2005 and lead to the development of a much needed day time opportunity for adults with learning disabilities in the Fermanagh area.
“Initially Fresh Focus opened its doors providing services to a pilot group of eight participants, all of whom were committed to change and wanted to be involved in creating new opportunities for greater independence and inclusion. Staff and the eight participants were keen to be part of shaping a new model of service. They all embraced the opportunity to attend a programme which was service user lead, provided opportunities to access local events and resources within their community, enabling them to live an empowered life of independence, fulfilment and most important of all, have fun and enjoy life!”
Pauline Lennon, Day Opportunities Manager, Adult Learning Disability Services explained:
“The Fresh Focus Service began as a mobile day opportunity service and as the number of participants attending the service increased we established a unit in the Buttermarket, Enniskillen which became our base. As interest and participation in the service expanded we used temporary accommodation at Fermanagh House. In March 2021 Fresh Focus: adult learning disability services moved into their new premises in Cross Street, Enniskillen. As the Fresh Focus service relocated during the COVID-19 pandemic, celebrations had to be put on hold and we never got the chance to hold an official opening. Today we are all gathered to acknowledge the success of the Fresh Focus Service and the life changing opportunities it provides for the individuals who attend. Our service users enjoyed dressing up in their favourite festive characters including an angel, some elves and even the Grinch, singing carols, joining in with a few party games, eating some delicious treats and of course a very special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus!
“The Fresh Focus service has gone from strength to strength, we have currently 43 participants operating over two bases in Enniskillen area. We are very proud of our staff, service users and their families for continuing to support and develop this wonderful service. We also wish to thank the local community for their kindness and generosity over the past 15 years in helping us to raise funds for equipment, day trips and outings it is very much appreciated. We look forward to future developments of this service and continuing to empower our service users to embrace the opportunities offered here in Fresh Focus.
“We would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year.”
