Welcome to Mainstay DRP
Through caring support and strong community connections, we enrich lives and help people live with independence, purpose and belonging.
From a small community initiative in Downpatrick in the early 1990s to a charity supporting over 200 people today, Mainstay has always had one mission — to help adults with learning disabilities live with purpose, belonging, and opportunity.
We’re proud to be a trusted presence in our community, walking alongside the people we support, their families, and carers.
How We Can Help
We provide a range of personalised supports for people with learning disabilities, designed around individual needs, goals and strengths. From residential care and supported living to day opportunities, short breaks and social enterprises, we work alongside each person to help them live with greater independence, connection and purpose.
Housing Support
Day & Evening Opportunities
Social Enterprises
Short Breaks
Values & Purpose
At Mainstay, our purpose is simple: to support people with learning disabilities to live fulfilling lives, realise their potential and be active members of their communities.
Everything we do is guided by a belief that every person deserves opportunities, choice, dignity and a sense of belonging.
Our Story
From our beginnings as the Down Residential Project, Mainstay DRP has grown into a leading local charity supporting over 200 people and their families through a wide range of services that promote independence, inclusion and opportunity.
Our Impact
Discover the wider social impact of our work through our SROI Report.
Stories, News & Events
Stories
Community Hub in Pictures September 2026
Community Hub in pictures September 2026
Ardcora in Pictures September 2026
Ardcora in pictures September 2026
Rathdree in Pictures September 2026
Rathdree in pictures September 2026
News
Mainstay DRP graduates celebrate at Queen’s University Belfast
Mainstay DRP graduates celebrate at Queen’s University Belfast after completing Caring for Our World. This accessible climate and sustainability programme helps people with learning disabilities build practical skills and confidence to care for the environment through everyday actions.
Events
Quiz Night 26th September
A fun night out for a good cause. Gather your friends and join us for Quiz Night on Saturday 26th September 2026. Every £5 donation helps support the Silent Cuts Pay It Forward Fund and its work to make sensory-friendly hair appointments more accessible.
