Across Northern Ireland, families caring for children and adults with learning disabilities, autism, and complex needs are in crisis. With year-long waiting lists and limited facilities, the need for quality, accessible respite has never been greater. CAN (Compass Advocacy Network) has supported over 565 individuals and families last year alone – but demand far exceeds supply.

We believe respite isn’t a luxury – it’s a lifeline. It keeps families together, protects mental health, allows parents to work, supports siblings, and enhances the lives of those with additional needs. That’s why we’re creating Northern Ireland’s first nature-based Respite Village at Lislagan Farm – and you can help us take the first vital step.

Your support will help us raise £50,000 to complete the refurbishment of the Old Stone Cottage, a 150-year-old heritage building that will be transformed into two fully accessible respite units and a welcoming community space. This unique cottage will deliver 468 nights of high-quality respite per year to families in urgent need.

We’ve already secured major funding – now we need your help to get over the finish line.

By contributing to this campaign, you are helping to unlock immediate, life-changing support for families and lay the foundation for a wider vision – a full Respite Village that will serve hundreds of families every year. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to making this dream a reality.

Your support means everything! Whether it’s £1 or £1,000, every donation helps us bring the CAN Respite Village to life. 

As a thank you, we’ll give every supporter a personal shout-out on our social media — because your kindness deserves to be celebrated! 

For a £100 donation, you can name one of our rescue hens. 

With donations of £1000 or more we’ll plant a young oak tree with a plaque displaying your name. 

And for those giving £5,000, we’ll go one step further — your name will be engraved on one our beautiful benches, and also your name will be proudly displayed on our Founders Wall as a permanent reminder of your impact.  

Let’s plant roots for the future together🌿 Donate or become a fundraiser here