The MAC, Belfast has won a charity award for providing a warm welcome for people with disabilities.
The Positive Futures Welcome Award celebrates organisations that go the extra mile in creating a supportive environment for people with a learning disability, acquired brain injury or autism, and their families.
Carers and people supported by our Family Matters Shared Lives Service have been attending the annual Christmas Show at the MAC for several years.
Julie McDowell, Service Manager for the Families Matter Shared Lives Service said: ‘The Carers, staff and family members attend the relaxed performance which is specially adapted to meet the needs of the people we support. Over the years and in particular last Christmas, the staff went above and beyond in accommodating all who attended. At our most recent visit people we support were so grateful for the warm welcome and excellent treatment they received. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff, who showed respect and patience to everyone.’
Dr Agnes Lunny, our Chief Executive, said: “We believe it’s really important to recognise organisations who are inclusive, compassionate and demonstrate understanding, and the team at the MAC certainly live up to those ideals. We look forward to many more businesses and organisations receiving our Welcome Award in the near future.”
Lisa McGinley, Director of the MAC said “Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do at the MAC, so we’re really pleased to receive this award. It shows our commitment to making sure everyone feels welcome and valued when they visit us. We believe the arts should be for
everyone, and we’re proud to be recognised for the kindness and respect our team shows to all our visitors.”