The Day Service operates a coffee shop, which runs in partnership with Newcastle Volunteer Bureau Merryfield School and Newcastle College. Experiences and skills gained at the coffee shop have been transferred into real jobs, through our employment agency for a number of people into paid employment. This is just one example of how a stepping stone approach can open up opportunities.

As part of the service development, users are also involved in the decision-making relating to the way the service operates. This is done through a users forum and advocacy group called connect, which has representatives from all sections of the service.

The additional support service is dedicated to providing support and opportunities to those people with complex learning and physical disabilities, there are specialist sessions including speech therapy, physiotherapy, drama, hydrotherapy and sensuous stimulation which the service co-ordinates. Interactive sessions are programmed for all users of the service were strong emphasis on appropriate community integration.