On Friday 27th June, we were delighted to celebrate the achievements of thirty local people who graduated from the Thrive programme – a life-changing initiative that supports individuals with a disability or health condition on their journey towards employment.

Delivered by Stepping Stones NI on behalf of the Lisburn & Castlereagh Labour Market Partnership, the programme gave participants the opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills and take positive steps towards meaningful work.

The graduation event took place at Lagan Valley Island and was filled with proud moments, personal stories, and plenty of celebration. It kicked off with breakfast networking, followed by speeches from special guests including Alderman Amanda Grehan, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, and Paddy Rooney, Deputy Secretary for the Work & Health Group at the Department for Communities.

Our CEO Paula Jennings spoke about the impact of Thrive, and we were especially moved by participants Kerri Parker and Ethan Veale, who shared their personal journeys and the difference the programme has made in their lives.

Employer partner Andrea McCann from McKees Solicitors also shared her experience of being part of the Thrive journey, showing how inclusive employment benefits everyone.

Certificates were presented by Councillor Claire Kemp, Chair of the Regeneration and Growth Committee, who said:

“As a council we want to see people thrive regardless of their circumstances and can achieve this through partnership working with central government and charities like Stepping Stones.”

The Thrive programme is funded by the Department for Communities and supported by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council through the Labour Market Partnership – a collaboration that’s helping to break down barriers and create real pathways into employment for people across the area.

Carla Frazer, our Director of Employability and Partnerships, brought the event to a close with a final message of congratulations to all graduates and a reminder that this is just the beginning.

We’re so proud of every single person who took part in Thrive. Your hard work, determination and resilience have inspired us all and we can’t wait to see what’s next for each of you.