NI Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has praised the new Assessment and Resource Centre, which opened in Lisburn, Co Antrim yesterday.

The £3.5million purpose-built centre offers an accessible, safe and secure environment for 120 adult trainees who have learning, physical and sensory disabilities and will also provide specialist treatment for up to 30 people with more complex needs. The services provided at the centre will include social work, behaviour support services and speech and language therapy.

The Minister said: "I welcome the opportunity to open this wonderful new centre and to meet with the professionals who are pivotal in making this day centre a success. Of course I have also had the privilege of meeting some of the people who will be able to avail of the excellent facilities, training and activities available here. The care, dedication and skill of the staff and the commitment of clients and carers is an inspiration to us all."

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The Minister continued: "Since becoming Health Minister, improving services for those with a learning disability has been a priority for me, and it continues to be so. I was encouraged that clients, as well as their carers and families, have been at the forefront developing this facility, which will undoubtedly make a real difference to the lives of many."

The centre also includes two indoor sensory gardens, two multi sensory suites, computer suite and an independent training flat to help development of skills in everyday living.

Bria Mongan, Assistant Director, Disability Services in the South Eastern Trust added: "We are delighted with the new centre which will contribute greatly towards the client experience and promoting new skills. Having service users and their families involved in the planning and design of this facility has greatly enhanced the service."

See: Adult Learning Facility Opens

(NS/BMcC)