Power NI’s generosity for Magherafelt social enterprise shines brightly

The Managing Director of a County Derry social enterprise that supports autistic 14 to 19 year-olds has described funding from Northern Ireland’s leading energy provider as a “game changer”.

Based in Magherafelt, Next Step Transitions is a not-for-profit organisation that works with teenagers to help them make the switch from school life to further or higher education, training, full or part-time employment by giving them personalised, one-to-one guidance.

This is made possible by a team of professionals that have more than 50 years’ combined experience. They work closely with young people, their parents and carers, to bridge the gap to the next step on their learning journey, with this delivered through a Supportive, Holistic, Inclusive, Navigating and Empowering (SHINE) approach.

Following consultations with young people from the Magherafelt and surrounding area, Next Step Transitions identified the need for a more informal, sensory-sensitive social space where participants could meet, build friendships, and feel comfortable being themselves.

Welcoming the Brighter Communities support, Joanne Martin – the Next Step Transitions Managing Director – said: “A massive thank you to Power NI! Their funding is a game-changer for Next Step Transitions.

“It means we can create a nurturing, suitable environment where our autistic participants are encouraged to feel confident and comfortable in being themselves. Furthermore, this support enables us to develop powerful workshops that actively promote independence and confidence, paving a clear path for them to succeed in the future.”

The £1,000 from Power NI is going to allow the Next Step Transitions to upgrade their dedicated meeting room with softer furnishings, beanbags, zone dividers, and sensory tools that promote emotional wellbeing and confident social interaction.

Ashleigh O’Neill – the Senior Marketing and Communications Executive at Power NI – said: “We are delighted to support a project that is removing barriers and creating an environment where young people can connect, grow and thrive. We are proud to help them make this meaningful impact.”

Since its inception, Power NI’s Brighter Communities initiative has been providing vital support to organisations across Northern Ireland, and helping local groups bring ideas to life through practical, community-focused funding.