Frequently Asked Questions for Learning Disability Services
Email: emmett.mullally@stepping-stones.org.uk
Phone: 028 9266 7124
Our FAQs
Who are Stepping Stones NI?
We are an award winning charity with 27 years of expertise supporting people with learning disabilities to gain new skills, build confidence, meet new people and develop pathways to a brighter future including employment.
We operate six social enterprises in Lisburn and Newtownards focusing on support for people with learning disabilities while our youth, training and employment services support people with barriers to learning and employment.
What do your social enterprises offer?
Our social enterprises provide realistic training platforms to build skills, confidence, and opportunities, all while being welcoming spaces where everyone belongs. They are social businesses open to the public with all the income reinvested back in to support our work.
What social enterprises could I attend?
Cafés (The Courtyard and 2nd Avenue in Lisburn and The Gatelodge in Newtownards) – hospitality training: cooking, food prep, serving customers, barista skills.
• Pink Elephant Wedding Stationery – creative training: design, printing, handmade crafts.
• Picture Framing – practical training: using tools, measuring, creating professional frames.
• Navigation House Horticulture & Wellbeing Hub – outdoor and wellbeing activities: gardening, planting, mindfulness, yoga, art, cooking and loving life activities.
How do I make a referral?
You can make a referral yourself, through a family member, social worker, or another professional. Just contact us and we’ll guide you through the simple process.
Is there a deadline for a referral?
No, you can apply at anytime throughout the year, just get in touch with us and we can talk you through the options and book you in for a visit.
Can I do a trial at the social enterprises?
Yes, trial placements are available so you can see if our social enterprises are the right fit for you.
Can I attend to Stepping Stones NI 5 days a week?
Yes, you can, if that suits your needs we have different opportunities available across our six social enterprises.
How long do I have to stay in my placement?
Placements are flexible. We’ll work with you to agree what suits your goals best.
Can I come to Stepping Stones NI on leaving school?
Yes, we welcome direct referrals from special and mainstream schools to our services.
Can I go to other services as well as Stepping Stones NI?
Absolutely. Many people access Stepping Stones NI alongside other services and supports.
Can I use self-directed payments to access social enterprises and support?
Yes. Self-directed payments can be used to fund placements and development programmes.
Are social enterprises and services free to access?
You can access support through a trust funded place or use your self-directed payments.
Can I change my mind if my placement is not suitable for me?
Yes. We’ll review things with you and help you explore other options if your placement isn’t the right match.
Do I have to live in Lisburn to access support?
No. You can attend Stepping Stones NI social enterprises in Lisburn and Newtownards so long as you can travel to our venues.
Do you provide transport to Stepping Stones NI social enterprises?
We don’t provide transport ourselves, but we can help you look at options. Many people use public transport, community transport, or get support from family and carers. If travel is a barrier, talk to us and we’ll work with you to find a solution.
Can I only come to Stepping Stones NI if I am looking for employment?
No. You don’t need to be looking for a job. You can come to learn, meet people, build your confidence too for a brighter more inclusive future.
