Our story – CAN at Lislagan Farm
Cottages at Lislagan is part of a much bigger story. It begins with Compass Advocacy Network (CAN), a user‑led charity of people with a learning disability that has been working across the North Coast and beyond for many years.
About Compass Advocacy Network
CAN works alongside children and adults with learning disabilities, autism and neurodiversity, supporting them to realise their potential in work, social and community life. We currently work with around 575 individuals across the North Coast, providing projects, services and social enterprises that promote inclusion, opportunity and voice.
In 2021, CAN purchased Lislagan Farm, an 11‑acre site on the outskirts of Ballymoney. This bold step allows us to “put down roots,” grow our self‑sufficiency and create space to develop new opportunities in horticulture, tourism, catering and learning.
Our vision is to build a place where people feel safe, valued and, most importantly, that they belong — a place where people play, dream, make friends, work, learn and rest. Over time, Lislagan will grow into Northern Ireland’s first nature‑based respite village, offering much‑needed support to families who are currently facing long waiting lists and limited quality respite options.
Lislagan Farm – putting down roots
By converting the original farmhouse, stables and barn into Cottages at Lislagan, we have created bookable accommodation and a welcoming place for families, groups and individuals to enjoy time in the countryside. These cottages are the first phase of our larger Lislagan plan.
Income from the cottages contributes directly to CAN’s financial sustainability, reducing reliance on statutory funding and charitable giving, and helping to fund future phases — including a further five units planned on site as part of our wider therapeutic village concept.
How the cottages fit into the vision
When you stay, you’re part of it
We see Lislagan Farm as a place that belongs to the community as well as to CAN. When you choose to stay in one of our cottages, you are not only enjoying a break; you are supporting a vision that will benefit people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health issues and complex needs from across Northern Ireland and beyond for years to come.