In 2022, CAN proudly introduced its unique Therapeutic programme, CAN BLAST. The BLAST (Building Lives through Activity, Support, and Therapy) project supports young people aged 8-18 with learning disabilities, neurodiversities, autism, and mental health issues in the Causeway Coast and Glens and Mid & East Antrim council areas. 

BLAST aims to support young people during a pivotal time in their lives, fostering better life outcomes through comprehensive support. The project focuses on community engagement in mainstream activities and collaboration with various therapies that benefit both young members and their families.  

BLAST is dedicated to organising and funding a wide range of therapeutic services tailored to support young people and their families. Recognising that each individual’s needs are unique, BLAST continually introduces innovative therapies to ensure holistic and effective support. The project currently offers a variety of therapies, including Play Therapy, Lego Therapy, Art Therapy, JRS, Rhythm & Rhyme sessions, Animal Therapy, Gaming Therapy, Neuro-Developmental Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Equine-Assisted Therapy. Each therapy provides distinct benefits, from enhancing emotional expression and sensory integration to promoting mental health and social skills. BLAST actively seeks to expand its offerings by incorporating new, evidence-based practices to better meet the evolving needs of young participants. Through thoughtful funding and collaboration with qualified therapists, BLAST is committed to creating a safe, nurturing environment where young people can heal, grow, and develop, making a positive difference in both their lives and those of their families.

BLAST also involves:  

• Better signposting to advice and guidance;  

• Accredited training in life skills to enable the young people to be safe, empowered, in control, informed and active within their own local community;  

• Enhancing social skills, physical and mental health, independence and coping skills for when things ‘go wrong’.     

    BLAST Activities  

• LEGO  

• Minecraft  

• Arts & Crafts  

• D.I.Y 

• Baking   

• Nature Art  

• Bushcraft  

• Reading Club   

• Social Action Projects   

• Residentials/Holidays   

• Field Trips – Alpacas Farm, The Zoo, Play Parks, W5 and much more!! 

BLAST also target’s three key subjects:  

• Physical Health – BLAST provides an environment where members can be physically active using the natural environment and green gym in our 11-acre farm. 

• Mental Health – BLAST provides access to numerous therapies & interventions designed to improve mental health. 

• Social Well-being – BLAST provides a welcoming friendly, non-threatening environment for people to come together and build friendships and connections. All participants will experience an increase in their social capital.   

• Siblings can also access the BLAST project and the same green therapy activities available on the site as detailed above, they will also be able to access specific activities that are age appropriate such as gaming, Lego building, sports, make up and beauty as well as art and music.   

For more information on the BLAST project please contact:  

Project Co-Ordinator, Jamie Campbell  

 Email, Jamie@compasspeople.org  

 Address,  Lislagan Farm 32 Lislagan Road, Ballymoney, BT53 7DD