Homes in West Tyrone have been smelling sweeter recently as a new social enterprise has been set up by a group of people with learning disabilities in Strabane.
Iona Houses in the town, is owned by the Apex Housing Association and provides accommodation, support, and care for adults with mild to moderate learning disabilities
Residents at the accommodation have set up 'Aroma by Iona’, with plenty of demand seen locally for their unique candles.
READ MORE: Omagh theatre group for those with learning disabilities set to take show to Dublin
The candles are made by the tenants of Iona Houses each month as part of their activity programme; with all profits going towards the scheme’s comfort fund, with a total of £500 raised since July 2022.
Establishing the social enterprise was a team effort, with tenants and staff members voting to select the ‘Aroma by Iona’ name and the five candle scents - Clean Linen, Watermelon, Unstoppables, Baby Powder and Rhubarb & Pear.
The accommodation's manager Amanda Ferris said all the residents have enjoyed the process of setting up the business.
“Since joining Iona Houses in November last year, I have focused on developing and sustaining an activity programme to ensure tenants’ lives are fulfilled, stimulated and active," Amanda said.
"This has been supported by the fantastic staff team here in Iona who are excellent at sourcing events and activities on an ongoing basis.
“The creation of Aroma by Iona has been a real team effort, with both staff and tenants playing a crucial part in its success. Tenants are really enjoying the process of making the candles and selling them locally; and we’re all delighted with the positive feedback we’ve received about the candles.”
Deirdre Walker, Apex’s Director of Supported Living, added: “The last few years have been extremely challenging for both staff and tenants in our supported living schemes; with so many planned activities being put on hold due to the pandemic.
"So, it’s even more wonderful now to see the success of this new venture by Iona Houses. I congratulate the staff and tenants who should all be very proud of themselves.”
READ NEXT:
Inside old Stewartstown Ulster Bank building transformed into coffee shop
Strabane oil thefts prompt community watch set-up in a bid to protect elderly
CCTV could be introduced to the Moy over 'night time economy' incidents
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here.
