Reflecting on the ARC NI Conference 2025!

ARC NI Conference 2025

The ARC NI Conference 2025 was an incredible event filled with inspiration, learning, and celebration as highlighted by the Evaluation Report. As we reflect on the memorable day, we want to share some of the special moments that made it unforgettable.

A Warm Welcome

Our wonderful Chair and Co-Chair, Leslie-Anne and Catherine, set the tone for the day with a heartfelt welcome at the Dunadry Hotel. Their positive energy helped everyone feel included right from the start.

Leslie-Anne and Catherine (Chair and Co-Chair)

Powerful Presentations

The day began with an insightful speech from Pam Cameron, Junior Minister. She spoke about people with a learning disability, autism and other support needs in Northern Ireland and the government’s future plans. Her words reflected hope and commitment to improving support and services for people with a learning disability.

Next, we had the pleasure of hearing from Camilla Kvalheim, who introduced us to TV BRA, a Norwegian TV channel run by people with a learning disability. Camilla’s session, joined by our TILII TV Q&A team, allowed delegates to hear directly from the inspiring journalists behind the channel. It was fantastic to see Experts by Experience actively participating as interviewers, interviewees, and camera crew. Watch out Northern Ireland – exciting things are coming our way!

Fighting for Rights

Following on from this was Geraldine McGahey, Chief Commissioner of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland. This speech focussed on the UNCRPD, concluding with a powerful message about the importance of strengthening disability rights legislation. Her talk stressed the urgent need for better protections in Northern Ireland, aligning with the standards seen elsewhere in the UK and Ireland.

A Journey Through Time

One of the day’s highlights was an unforgettable performance by CAN and Kilcreggan. Their Doctor Who-inspired play, The Time Travellers of Change, transported us through key moments in learning disability history in Northern Ireland. Their storytelling was moving and thought-provoking – a huge Bravo to everyone involved!

Engaging Workshops

Before lunch, attendees joined a variety of workshops focused on how technology can inspire change. From apps to communication devices, each session was engaging and informative, sparking new ideas.

Lunchtime and Lively Discussion

After a delicious lunch (with chicken curry emerging as the clear crowd favourite!), it was time for the government panel. Chaired by the fantastic Linda McAuley, the session gave delegates a chance to ask important questions. While it was clear there’s still work to be done, the responses were encouraging and filled the room with optimism and determination.

NI Government Panel with Panel Chair, Linda McAuley

Meanwhile, in the afternoon workshops, Experts by Experience enjoyed a range of creative and relaxing activities, including DJing, arts and crafts, candle-making, and a calming sound bath. Huge thanks to our workshop facilitators for bringing so much joy and creativity to the day.

Celebrating 25 Years of ARC NI!

The day ended with a fantastic birthday party celebrating ARC NI’s 25th anniversary! There were cupcakes (that left a few blue tongues!), a lively game of pass the parcel with ARC travel mugs as prizes, and a special surprise for Stephen Walker, Office Manager. Stephen has dedicated 25 years to ARC NI, and we couldn’t let the occasion pass without celebrating his incredible contribution – thank you, Stephen!

Michael (TILII member) with 25th Birthday Cupcake!

Thank You!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, spoke, performed, or facilitated a workshop – you made the day truly special. A special mention goes to the staff at the Dunadry Hotel for their fantastic support throughout the event. Finally, thank you to The Shot NI for capturing the special moments of the day.

Here’s to continuing our journey together – learning, growing, and making real change happen!

Watch our video “ARC NI Conference 2025 Recap” on TILII TV for a roundup of the day’s special moments!