Antrim and Newtownabbey: Community advice services 'needed more than ever' as CAAN celebrates 60th anniversary
Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey (CAAN) has celebrated its 60th anniversary with a special event attended by staff, volunteers, local partners, funders, and community representatives
The milestone marks six decades of providing free, confidential, and independent advice to people – supporting those facing financial pressure, housing challenges, welfare issues, and a wide range of complex life situations.
Speakers included the Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Julie Gilmour; Fionnuala O’Donnell, Antrim Foodbank manager; Ray Caldwell, Director of VCD in the
Department for Communities, and Ursula O’Hare, Head of NI Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
Each highlighted the essential role CAAN continues to play for individuals and families in need. Client Lee Williamson also spoke passionately about the impact the service has had on his life.
Reflecting on the organisation’s legacy, Lorraine Adamson, area manager for CAAN, said: “As we celebrate 60 years of Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey, I am incredibly proud of the dedication, compassion, and resilience shown by our staff and volunteers across the decades.
"This milestone reflects their unwavering commitment to supporting people through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Sadly, the pressures facing households across our community today mean that our services are needed more than ever.
"It’s clear that CAAN, with the support of our partners, will continue to play a vital role for many years to come, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helps us ensure that people can navigate hardship with dignity, respect, and hope.”
Each year, CAAN handles more than 40,000 client enquiries, ensuring that individuals receive the guidance, advocacy, and support they need to navigate increasingly complex social and financial pressures.
The organisation also helps generate around £8.5 million annually in income for local individuals and families, an impact that can be life‑changing at a time when rising costs continue
to place strain on many households.
In addition, CAAN supports over 850 digital enquiries every year, helping those who face digital barriers access essential services and stay connected.
While the figures demonstrate the scale of CAAN’s work, the human story is even more compelling - 88% of clients report the advice they received improved their wellbeing, which is a testament to reduced stress, restored hope, and the dignity that comes from having a trusted advocate in difficult times.