Mainstay DRP Annual Formal 2026 Celebrates Friendship, Achievement and Community

More than 200 clients, families, carers, staff and friends came together at the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa in Newcastle on Friday 12th June for the third annual Mainstay DRP Formal.

The event has quickly become one of the highlights of the year, providing clients with an opportunity to dress up, enjoy a special evening with friends, and create lasting memories in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Guests enjoyed a delicious meal, great company and a lively evening of entertainment, with music from Hugo Duncan and Country Harmony keeping the dance floor busy throughout the night. From the first song to the final dance, clients embraced the opportunity to celebrate with friends, make new memories and enjoy a truly special occasion. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, excitement and celebration as old friendships were renewed and new ones were formed.

The Annual Formal was first established through the vision and dedication of Cyril McKinney, who recognised the importance of creating opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to enjoy the same social experiences as everyone else. What began as a single event has grown into a much-anticipated annual celebration that continues to bring people together from across the Mainstay community.

Celebrating Achievement

While the evening was first and foremost about bringing people together to enjoy a fantastic night out, it also provided an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of clients who have shown determination, growth, kindness and resilience throughout the year.

A special part of this year’s formal was the presentation of Mainstay DRP’s first Annual Awards.

Introduced as part of our Pathway to Possibility strategy, the awards recognise clients who embody Mainstay DRP’s core values of Champion Ability, Empowerment, Community, Purpose and Compassion.

Each recipient has demonstrated outstanding personal growth, determination, kindness and commitment over the past year. Their achievements serve as a reminder that success comes in many forms and that every step forward deserves to be recognised and celebrated.

A Lifetime of Service Recognised

The evening concluded with a special presentation as Cyril McKinney was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of more than four decades of service to people with learning disabilities, their families and communities.

Throughout his career, Cyril has worked as a nurse, social worker, safeguarding professional, volunteer, community leader and Interim CEO of Mainstay DRP. He has spent a lifetime advocating for people, creating opportunities and helping individuals achieve their full potential.

His impact extends far beyond his professional career. Cyril co-founded Downpatrick Sports Club, helped establish the Annual Formal more than two decades ago and has been instrumental in creating opportunities for friendship, inclusion and participation for countless people across County Down and beyond. Even today, he continues to support others through his work as a bank social worker and ongoing community involvement.

The standing ovation he received reflected the deep respect, gratitude and admiration felt by everyone in the room.

More Than a Night Out

While the music, dancing and celebrations made for a memorable evening, the Annual Formal is about much more than one night.

It is about friendship, inclusion, belonging and creating opportunities for people to come together, build confidence and enjoy experiences that many of us can take for granted.

As another successful formal came to a close, guests left with tired feet, smiling faces and memories that will last long after the final song played.

We would like to thank everyone who attended, volunteered and helped make the evening such a success. We are already looking forward to next year.