Who We Are
Supporting people with learning disability or autism to live, learn and work.
We believe that with the right support, any individual with a learning disability or autism can reach their full potential and achieve their employment aspirations.
Over 40 years of experience dedicated to empowering individuals with learning disabilities or autism to achieve their full potential.
Providing services in the Belfast, South Eastern and Western Health & Social Care Trust areas, we support people with learning disability and/or autism aged 16-65 through a range of individualised services and programmes.
Our Vision
An inclusive society with equal opportunities for all.
We envision a future where people with learning disability or autism are fully included in every aspect of society — empowered to access education, employment, and community life on equal terms.
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Our Mission
Supporting people with learning disability or autism to live, learn and work.
We believe that with the right support, any individual with a learning disability or autism can reach their full potential and achieve their employment aspirations.
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Our Values
Empowerment
We have the skills and attitude to make change happen.
Integrity
We always do what's right even when it's difficult.
Passion
We truly believe in what we do and it shows in our results.
Quality
We're always learning, improving and striving for excellence.
User
At the heart of everything we do, we always put service users first.
Meet The Team
Providing our overall governance and leadership based on a shared vision, mission and values.
Chief Executive
Cara Cash-Marley
Cara has been CEO of Orchardville for 18 months and brings over 20 years’ experience in the community and voluntary sector. She has held CEO roles for more than a decade, with expertise spanning learning disability, women’s services, social enterprise, community development, sexual violence support, and the arts.
Director of Employment & Community Inclusion
Lydia Lynas
Lydia has worked at Orchardville since 1996 and oversees participant-led services across employment and day opportunities, manages key funder relationships, and develops new projects including travel training, volunteering, and social clubs. Lydia is also Orchardville’s Adult Safeguarding Champion.
Director of Corporate Services
Anne Marie McCartney
Anne Marie joined Orchardville in 2021, bringing 30+ years of chartered accountancy experience. She leads finance, admin, and IT teams, ensuring strong financial controls, compliance with legislation, and robust organisational infrastructure to support Orchardville’s growth and smooth running.
Board of Directors
Orchardville is managed by a voluntary Board of Directors who provide our overall governance and leadership based on a shared vision, mission and values. Our Board ensures that Orchardville fulfils its financial and legal responsibilities and promotes best practice. Board members bring a range of skills and experience ensuring that Orchardville delivers on its charitable and business objectives.
Chair
Kathy Martin
Former Head of Marketing, Communications & Audiences at BBC Northern Ireland, Kathy is a seasoned professional with extensive Board experience in the charity sector and also extensive experience of learning disability.
Treasurer & Chair of ARC
Louise Tiffney
A qualified accountant, Louise provides strong financial guidance.
Director
Jamie Bill
Jamie is a senior manager of a large private organisation and brings an employer perspective to the Board.
Director
Jonathan McAlpin
Jonathan has extensive experience in social enterprise.
Director & Chair of the Governance and People Committee
Chris Perry
Chris is Chair of the Orchardville Governance & People Committee and provides guidance on HR.
Director
Carrie Matchett
Carrie is a freelance consultant specialising in strategy & governance.
Director
Margaret O’Kane
A social worker & recently retired senior Heath Trust executive, Margaret has extensive experience of learning disability and leadership.
Director
Jo McGinley
Jo has over 20 years’ experience working in communications, change management and business improvement.
Donate to Orchardville
Your generosity fuels our mission at Orchardville, where every donation helps transforms lives in the community. By contributing, you’re not just supporting a charity – you’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals who need it most.
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