Core to the launch of Adult Learners' Week at Stormont yesterday were the stories of three learners - Sammy McIntyre, Paul Norney and Patrick O'Neill.

Sammy and Paul were both learners who have engaged with the Big Lottery supported project, Man Matters through its work with NIACRO. Man Matters (managed by the WEA) offers opportunities for men to return to learning and both men exemplified exactly what the project is aiming to do.

Paul spoke not just about what he had gained from the courses in terms of confidence and a new enthusiasm for learning, but also of the importance of such courses to help build a more sahred society. Sammy has been motivated to begin writing and has signed up for an Open University course.

Paul Norney, Ann Osborne, Basil McCrea, Sammy McIntyre, Gordan Dunne, Colin Neilands and Linda McElroy

Patrick is a Health Care Support Worker at the Mater Hosipital who has been supported in his personal and career development by the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust which, working closely with the relevant Trade Unions, has developed an innovative learning programme that benefits from the skills and experience of EGSA, Belfast Metropolitan College and the Open University.