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Group inspiring adults with learning difficulties celebrates award nomination

Emma OrrBBC News NI
BBC A man with short dark hair stands in a bright, spacious workshop filled with creative energy. He wears a navy-blue collared shirt embroidered with “The Bridge Association” and looks directly at the camera. Behind him, shelves of materials, colourful artwork, and scattered tools hint at an active, hands-on environment.BBC
Thomas Murray is a member of the Bridge Association

A group that has been inspiring adults with learning disabilities for more than 30 years, has been nominated for BBC Make a Difference Award.

The Bridge Association in County Antrim is a finalist in the Community Group Award category for Northern Ireland. Those behind the centre say they've no idea who put them forward.

Thomas Murray has been a trainee The Bridge Association for more than 15 years.

For him the organisation's message is simple: "Always try your best and look to the future."

Murray describes it as "a big family, with lots of love and headed up by the big bosses David and Jacqueline".

"If I was at home I would just be sitting watching TV, I'd miss this place," he said.

The organisation provides opportunities in retail, horticulture and catering, running two social enterprise projects — the Quirky Emporium and Hug a Mug Café in Antrim.

Founded by David Edmont and Jacqueline Barnes, it supports 43 adults.

They hope to accommodate more adults when their "forever home" at a new premises in the town is complete.

Edmont said the long term goal is to equip adults with the skills to live independently.

"Our success is when we see them living, taking that big step and living independently as a valued member of the community," he said.

Bridge Association A group of people in matching bright blue polo shirts stand together outdoors at a community event, posing behind a wooden sign that reads “Quirky Choir.”Bridge Association
The Quirky Choir is a big hit with members
A smiling person with short grey hair is pictured in a workshop setting. They wear a dark blue collared shirt and are seated in the foreground, with tools, machinery and a colleague visible in the blurred background.
Brenda loves having fun with the groups baking leaders

Brenda Delargy from Antrim has been attending the centre since it opened in 1988.

"I love the computer work – typing up newsletters and art and craft," she said.

Brenda is looking forward to the group's new centre being built.

A young man with light brown hair and blue eyes smiles at the camera. He’s wearing a navy-blue collared shirt embroidered with “The Bridge Association” There is a workshop space with tools, containers, and creative wall art in the background.
Daniel has made some great friends through the organisation

Daniel Ostler has attended the group full-time for three years.

"I love everything about it, the company, seeing the people, it gets you out and about, it's just a brilliant wee place.

"Everyday is a learning day. You just get smarter and smarter when you work in a place like this."

'Small things that make a big difference'

Jacqueline Barnes success for adults with learning disabilities can be "simply being able to write your name and read your name".

She says "it's very humbling and it gets very emotional.

"It's the small things that make a big difference.

"We have people here who can't use paper and pen but they can type on a computer.

"When you see them being able to produce their thoughts and their ideas and hand them to you, that gets very emotional."

Man and woman smiling at camera. Man is wearing a pink shirt and woman a tropical green top. The man has a chain around his neck and the woman has a heart necklass. There is a workshop area blurred in the background.
Founders David Edmont and Jacqueline Barnes

Making the shortlist has come as a bit of a shock to the association.

"We don't know who nominated us.

"We're absolutely humbled to be in the final. We are shocked but as far as we are concerned we are already winners, we win every day – this would just be the icing on the cake," David added.

Bridge Association Four people wearing purple aprons and blue gloves prepare sandwiches and meals in a commercial kitchen, standing behind a stainless-steel counter with plates and bowls ready for serving.Bridge Association
The Bridge Association was established in 1988

The Community Group Award

It is awarded to a group that has helped to change lives within their community.

The Bridge Association is one of four finalists in the category, along with:

  • Cancer Fund for Children Carefree Choir, the choir brings together families affected by cancer. It provides friendship, support and hope, while also giving back through performances that raise vital funds and awareness.
  • The Little Forget Me Nots Trust, supports families after the loss of a child through compassion and practical support.
  • CHILL (Carrickfergus Hub Improving Lives Locally), a mental health group offering support, connection and crisis prevention through counselling, community activities and outreach for both adults and young people.

Overall winners will be announced live on Vinny and Cate's BBC Radio Ulster show on Friday 25 September.

Purple, sparkly Make a Difference Award branded 'The Community Group Award' graphic.