Lucy B, 20 | Bangor | Day Opportunities
Lucy is a bubbly, sociable and creative young woman who loves dancing, singing, crafts and painting. She also plays tag rugby with the Seaside Sharkies and enjoys taking part in a wide range of activities and schemes.
She has a natural ability to make friends and support those around her, often taking on a leadership role among her peers.
Finding Her Place at Orchardville
Lucy attended a school for pupils with moderate learning difficulties and completed sixth form in summer 2025. Orchardville supported her during her school years with transition skills and travel training, helping her prepare for life after school.
Before joining the service, Lucy attended a number of taster sessions. This gave her the opportunity to meet staff and participants, try different activities and decide whether Orchardville was the right fit for her.
Following a successful transition, Lucy began attending three days a week, gradually building up to her full timetable.
Learning Through Experience
Lucy enjoys the variety of opportunities available at Orchardville. Her week combines learning, volunteering, creativity and time in the community.
She particularly enjoys How Things Work and Art and Wellness, while also taking part in sessions covering independent living, health, relationships and ICT. She recently completed an OCN in ICT Skills and Processes and is currently working towards an OCN in Volunteering.
A particularly important part of Lucy’s development has been her volunteering. She currently has placements at Mums and Tots and the Re Café, hosted by Bangor Elim Church. These opportunities are helping her gain practical experience, develop workplace skills and explore different areas of employment.
Lucy also enjoys the social side of Orchardville, including Zumba, drama and the Friday evening social club. She particularly enjoys opportunities to sing, dance and showcase her creative talents.
Growing in Confidence
Since joining Orchardville, Lucy has developed strong friendships, with some of these continuing outside the service and becoming an important part of her social life.
Her confidence has grown, and her caring and supportive nature has become increasingly evident. She enjoys helping others and getting involved in the wider community.
Lucy is also keen to become more independent. Travel training is an important next step, giving her the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence she needs to travel independently.
“I like the art room, and the ICT course. I like my friends I made in Orchardville because they are funny. I like Resource, serving in the café, and helping with the wee ones in Mums and Tots.”
Looking to the Future
Lucy has clear ambitions for the future. Her ultimate goal is to secure paid employment and, one day, live independently.
She plans to continue building her experience through volunteering, explore different career options and work towards further qualifications. Each new experience is helping her understand what she enjoys, develop practical skills and prepare for the next stage of her life.
Lucy has made a positive start to her journey at Orchardville, and we’re excited to see where her ambition, creativity and determination take her next.
Supported By
