Day Opportunities
Supporting independence.
Orchardville’s Day Opportunities Service helps young people and adults with a learning disability to live more independently and feel part of their community. Delivered across Belfast, North Down, Lisburn, and Derry/Londonderry with secure Health Trust funding, our programmes engage over 350 participants each year, providing safe, structured, and meaningful opportunities to thrive.
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Orchardville Day Opportunities
At Orchardville, we believe everyone deserves the chance to live as independently as possible and to feel fully included in their community. Our Day Opportunities Service provides just that — structured, supportive, and meaningful programmes for young people and adults with a learning disability.
We currently deliver day opportunities across Belfast, North Down, Lisburn, and Derry/Londonderry, with each project funded securely by the local Health Trust. We work closely with these partners and provide regular reports to ensure our services remain high quality, accountable, and focused on what matters most: supporting participants to thrive.
Every year, more than 350 people take part in our programmes, with over 40,000 attendances across our various locations. This means we have a wealth of experience in creating positive, safe, and rewarding opportunities for those who attend.
How It Works
What Participants Can Expect
Our dedicated staff team supports participants in small groups of 6–12, with a staff ratio of around 1:6. Together, they take part in a wide range of activities designed to build life skills, independence, and social confidence.
A quarterly timetable is developed in partnership with participants, giving everyone the chance to shape the activities they want to try. Sessions take place both in our bases and out and about in the local community — from cooking and arts to sports, volunteering, and community visits.
Although there is no time limit on how long someone can attend Day Opportunities, we encourage progression and personal growth. Many participants go on to explore further education, work placements, volunteering, or even employment — often with support from other Orchardville programmes.
Eligibility
Who Can Join
Each year, we welcome many new participants, especially young people leaving special school or college, for whom a day opportunity can be a natural and positive next step into adult life.
If you’re interested in joining, you can either be referred through your social worker, school, or college, or you can contact us directly. We’ll invite you to visit, meet our staff, and see our services in action. We can also arrange sample sessions so you can decide if Day Opportunities feels like the right fit for you.
Find Out More
Our Day Opportunities Service is about more than just daily activities — it’s about creating a pathway to greater independence, community involvement, and a fulfilling adult life.
To find out more about the programmes available in your area, please use our Programme Finder or get in touch with us directly.
Upcoming Events
Every Thursday from 7pm
Social Club Belfast
Join us on Thursday nights from 7pm to take part in our Belfast Social Club.
27th February 2026, 7:30pm
Quiz Night Live
Join us for Quiz Night Live on Friday 27th February 2026, from 7:30pm at Knock Golf Club, Belfast.
Every other Thursday from 6pm
Social Club Lisburn
Join us on alternative Thursday nights from 6pm to take part in our Lisburn Social Club.
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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