Autumn 2026
Together, we help lives add up
Welcome I’m delighted to introduce this latest issue of Shaftesbury News to our ever-expanding community of supporters. I believe we are united by a shared vision of a world in which lives add up and everyone is valued. Shaftesbury’s services are wide-ranging and multi-faceted, supporting not only children, young people and adults with disabilities, but their families too (probably much like the nineteenth century parliamentary work of Lord Shaftesbury). Many of you are long-term supporters, keeping pace with how our work has expanded and evolved over the decades. For newcomers, our challenge is to convey the impact and ambition of our 70+ care, education and rehabilitation services across the UK. Each service is embedded locally with unerring supporters, many of whom are less familiar with Shaftesbury's work nationally. Newsletters like this one bridge the gap between the national and the local, highlight the breadth and scale of what we do, the societal need for our services, and our plans for the future. Please get in touch via the details below if your interest is piqued by what you read here. Your support and generosity is what enables us to keep growing. Until next time,
Contents 3 News in brief A round up of our latest updates 4 Disability in a digital age How Laura is making herself heard 6 The joy of music Honoured with a Shaftesbury song 7 How Makaton supports learning and expression An introduction to Makaton 8 Feeling seen at Parallel Windsor Partnering with Parallel for its 10th anniversary 10 Careers shaped aboard Shaftesbury ships Exploring our link with a heritage training scheme 12 Unlocking potential The value of volunteering for the people we support 13 Working together A fundraising update 14 A Legacy of faith Remembering Jean Fisher 15 Over to you Try Anita’s recipe 16 Shaftesbury Day Celebrating the legacy of our earliest founder
Sally Chivers Chief Executive
Together, we make lives add up.
Stay in touch 0191 500 9176
supporterservices@shaftesburygroup.org shaftesburygroup.org
Shaftesbury is the operating name of Livability which is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee in England and Wales. Patron: HRH The Princess Royal. Registered Office: Shaftesbury, Coburg House, 1 Coburg Street, Gateshead, NE8 1NS. Registered Charity No: 1116530 Registered in England No: 5967087. Photos p4 (Peter Higginbotham/Mary Evans Picture Library) J168-26
NEWS IN BRIEF At the cutting edge of rehabilitation
A royal visit Shaftesbury Bradbury Court enjoyed a visit from our Patron, HRH The Princess Royal. This created huge excitement for the 20 people with complex needs who live there. Everyone made a huge effort to welcome The Princess Royal and to show off the vibrant social activities on offer, whether it was baking, musicmaking, playing pool or the weekly book club. This included a Bake Off competition judged by Princess Anne.
An invitation to Westminster Supporters joined us at a House of Lords reception to hear of our future plans. This was at the invitation of our Vice-President, Lord Donald Curry of Kirkharle CBE, who welcomed everyone as part of ‘one big Shaftesbury family’. Guests were greeted on arrival by the people whose lives we support, including a group of students from Shaftesbury Nash College. Many felt the interaction with the students was the highlight of the event.
A panel of leading experts came together at our first neuro rehabilitation conference at Shaftesbury Icanho in Stowmarket. More than 60 healthcare professionals, brain injury specialists and people with experience of disability attended to hear the latest on rehabilitation research, policy and practice. Former Icanho patients shared their personal testimonies of how Shaftesbury clinicians helped restore their confidence in the aftermath of a brain injury.
Rose recollections An article on John Groom’s flower girls in our last issue of Shaftesbury News prompted Christine France (who is a regular contributor to our mailbag) from Norfolk to get in touch. She has fond memories of the artificial flowers being sold at the weekly meeting for women at her mum’s church. Similarly, Stephen Plumb recalls how in the 1980s and 1990s, roses were sold every year in the City of London to raise money for John Grooms. He has kept one to this day! We were also delighted to hear from Lynne Laughton, a descendant of John Groom. Proud of her great grandfather’s legacy, she recalls how the buttonhole flowers worn at her wedding 58 years ago were made at the John Grooms workshop in Edgware. Sir Eddie George, then-Governor of the Bank of England, promoting the John Grooms appeal in 1993 3
Disability in a digital age Like many her age, business graduate Laura Reeve, 36, aspires to be an online influencer and shares much of her life on social media.
T
he videos she posts online are intentionally ordinary, covering anything from skincare and make-up, tattoos, holidays, music or days out. What sets Laura apart from other content creators is a catastrophic brain injury she suffered as the result of a tragic accident 12 years ago. She went from a carefree life with her boyfriend to round-the-clock care at Shaftesbury Kenway Court. A film we made about Laura in 2024 immediately went viral and has since had over 265,000 views. Her story hits hard – a reminder that anyone, at any age, can be affected by an acquired brain injury and have their life irrevocably changed. As our in-house expert, Laura was excited to take part in a social media takeover. This gave her the freedom to direct and script content to be posted on Shaftesbury’s online platforms. The short videos, all featuring Laura, challenge misconceptions about people who are paralysed.
“My life is definitely not boring. People like me can do more than just exist. I just have to plan everything with military precision, whereas before I could be far more spontaneous.” After her accident, Laura felt suicidal, unable to cope with such a devasting change in her circumstances. She now uses her online presence to motivate and inspire other people with disabilities to live life to the fullest. It’s given her a creative outlet to share her views and connect with others. 4
“People’s perceptions about what life is like with a disability couldn’t be further from the reality,” “With the right support from the right people, confidence can be built. Every human being deserves to be treated with dignity and respect,” she says.
The content ideas are all Laura’s, but she is quick to credit our staff who support her to post online. Unable to type, Laura used dictation to write a book about her life, a process that took almost two years.
Sally Chivers, Shaftesbury CEO, says: “A social media takeover gives the people whose lives we support a voice.
“Support workers do everything for me, all the physical things I can’t do myself. They also offer me psychological and emotional support. They listen to me babble on for hours!
“I received a copy of Laura’s book when it was first published. It wasn’t an easy read but it was very impactful. I have been following her sure and steady progress ever since. She is a lesson in resilience and I am always buoyed by her sense of humour.
“Their job is tough and is not for everyone. I spend more time with support workers than I do my own family.”
“She can teach us all something about how to live well, to seize on opportunities and not be held back by self-doubt or fear of the unknown.”
The joy of music: a new Shaftesbury song
W
e are honoured that world-renowned Christian songwriter, Graham Kendrick has composed a Shaftesbury song.
Inspired by our work, Joy oh Joy celebrates inclusion and the collective welcome at the Father’s table. Gail, supported by Shaftesbury Kenway Court in Southend, says:
“It’s a privilege someone has taken the time to write this for us. I like the words, the way they include all sides of the community, inviting them to the Lord’s table. It means everyone is welcome, including us.” People we support from across the UK have been involved in recording our very own Shaftesbury version along with staff and supporters. We look forward to sharing this with you soon. Look out for Graham's official release of Joy oh Joy in the new year.
6
How Makaton supports learning and expression
Communication is much more than the spoken word. It is how we connect with others, express our thoughts and feelings, and understand the world around us. It gives us choices and enables us to be heard.
T
hat is why we use a Total Communication approach across our specialist school and colleges, helping every learner to communicate in a way that works for them. Makaton plays a pivotal role, adding clarity and meaning to every interaction.
Staff model key signs and vocabulary, helping students understand and use language in meaningful, real-life situations. Over time, this consistent approach can support social interaction, self-expression and greater independence.
Even if you have not come across Makaton before, you will have used parts of it without realising.
“It creates a culture in which communication, including signing, becomes part of everyone’s daily routine,” says Alessandro.
Every day, we rely on facial expressions, gestures, and body language to help convey meaning. Makaton builds on these natural tools to make communication clearer and more inclusive. “Makaton offers a visual layer of meaning to words and sentences through signs, body language and facial expression,” says Alessandro Frige, a qualified Makaton tutor and lecturer at Shaftesbury Nash College.
One of the most inspiring examples of Makaton in action is the college's Makaton Choir, a collaborative project launched this year with the Speech and Language Therapy team. “When we pair music with Makaton, it becomes a communication powerhouse,” says Alessandro, helping students develop confidence, vocabulary and fluency in a fun way.
7
Feeling seen at Parallel Windsor
Over 70 members of our community joined us at Great Windsor Park on 5 July for a vibrant festival of inclusivity.
N
ow in its 10th year, Parallel is a social enterprise with the aim of supporting people with disabilities to live life to the full. This aligns with our own objectives, making it the perfect opportunity to bring together staff, people we support, and their families. We were involved with the inaugural event in 2016 and were delighted to partner with Parallel again this year. People with and without disabilities travelled from Shaftesbury
8
services across England and Northern Ireland. The mission was a simple one; to have fun. #TeamShaftesbury entered distance races of 100m to 10K, enjoyed the sensory experiences and dominated at the dance off! It was thrilling to see people we support take part on their own terms when so often they feel like an outsider at events. We’re already looking forward to Parallel 2027!
“It was lovely to have the opportunity to embrace and celebrate my disability and differences without being treated like an afterthought and be in the minority.” Laura, Shaftesbury Kenway Court
9
Careers shaped aboard Shaftesbury ships In February 1866, Lord Shaftesbury asked a crowd of homeless boys if they would consider living aboard a decommissioned warship to train for a career in the Royal or Merchant Navy. The enthusiastic show of hands confirmed that a ‘Shaftesbury ship’ moored on the Thames could provide a career path for destitute boys.
T
his paved the way for a progressive new training scheme that lasted over 100 years.
The first ship, Chichester, was up and running by December that year. A second ship, Arethusa, was launched by Lord Shaftesbury in 1874 following a £5,000 donation from philanthropist Lady Burdett-Coutts. By 1911, 8,500 boys had benefited from the two years of training. They acquired maritime and life skills – cooking, carpentry and tailoring – as well as learning to read, write and do basic arithmetic.
Last year, our Vice-Patron, Nicholas AshleyCooper – the 12th Earl of Shaftesbury – dedicated a new memorial to the ships at the National Memorial Arboretum. Former trainees, Roger Alford and Brian Baker recently visited Shaftesbury New Court Place, donating £2,000 on behalf of the Arethusa Old Boys’ Association. They also kindly gifted us a framed picture of the Arethusa as a permanent reminder of our shared history.
The scheme was run by the National Refuges for Homeless and Destitute Children, later known as Shaftesbury Homes and Arethusa. Still in existence today, the organisation is now the grant-making body SYP Trust, supporting charitable projects for children and young people in London. Although separate from Shaftesbury, the two organisations are linked by our founder and namesake. Shaftesbury training ships were operational until the 1970s with an estimated 40,000 boys benefiting from the scheme.
Roger Alford, Chairman of the Arethusa Old Boys' Association
In the same way Shaftesbury ships sought to provide vocations for vulnerable young men, our education settings prepare students for life beyond school and college. By combining traditional learning with work placements, students have the best possible chance to gain employment post-education.
10
11
Unlocking potential: the value of volunteering Sam has been volunteering at Norfolk Industries, a small business passionate about providing employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Supported by Shaftesbury John Grooms Court in Norwich, Sam has gained valuable employability skills in the contract packing side of the business. The company is fortunate to have Sam as a work placement and colleagues enjoy his cheeky personality and smiley disposition!
Music + Connect4 + Going to work + Cheeseburgers
“It promotes my independence and gets me out to meet new people.”
Ashley has been part of the community at Shaftesbury Dolphin Court for 17 years. He’s very sociable and enjoys a good chat – so much so that he volunteers at the local shop every Friday. He makes a valued contribution; greeting customers, helping them pack their shopping and sometimes, even carrying it home for them. He loves the interaction and the staff appreciate his warm nature and willingness to help out.
Family + Helping others + Nature + Volunteering + Mobile phone Annie volunteers at a British Heart Foundation charity shop local to where she lives in Bournemouth. Her responsibilities include cleaning and helping to organise stock. She enjoys being part of a friendly team, helping customers and making them feel welcome. Meeting new people has been a real boost to Annie’s confidence. Volunteering has taught her the importance of following safety procedures and keeping herself and others safe at work. She’s excited to develop new skills, including how to operate the till.
Calm and wellbeing + Family + Helping others
12
“Volunteering has helped me meet new people and be in a better headspace. It makes me feel happy and fulfilled, and I’d encourage anyone thinking about volunteering to give it a try.”
Working together
Each year, your incredible generosity supports children, young people and adults across our network of over 70 services to live more independent and fulfilled lives – thank you!
Cycling through the heat
Heatwaves and punctures couldn't stop Head of Shaftesbury Nash College, Martin Bentham from completing his 83-mile Isle of Wight cycling challenge raising over £1,000 for the college this summer.
Pushing open the doors of Shaftesbury Talbot Manor
Renovation works are well underway at Shaftesbury Talbot Manor in Dorset. The gothic building is being transformed into a modern, fully accessible home for 10 people with complex health needs and is on track to welcome new residents early next year. Once open, Talbot Manor will provide residents with the opportunity to live as independently as possible. Each room has been designed to feel like home and will be fitted with assistive devices and aids to help residents with everyday activities such as cooking in the accessible kitchen.
Over two days, Martin pedalled from Yarmouth to Ryde and back. In over 30 degree heat he took on climbs over 6,574ft. “The hardest part was the heat and staying hydrated,” Martin told us. Some of the funds will go towards a reading for pleasure initiative, helping students access a wider variety of books. “I’d like to thank everybody who donated. Seeing the money come in helped me focus on the finish line.” We are so grateful to Martin for taking on this challenge and for his dedication to our students.
We are currently fundraising for the final touches that make a real difference to the people we support. Dennis, pictured above, lives nearby at Shaftesbury Ivy Lodge. He features in a video to explain how important Talbot Manor will be for future residents. You can watch the video and make a donation visit shaftesburygroup. org/talbot-manor-appeal
Dennis, outside his café work placement
13
A Legacy of faith, remembering Jean Fisher Some people leave an impression that continues to inspire and bring hope after they gone. Jean Fisher, who passed away in 2025, was one of those people. Jean’s Christian faith shaped decades of support. Inspired by her nursing background at St Bart’s Hospital, she joined The Shaftesbury Society’s Council during the 1970s and served as Chair of Trustees from 1991 to 1998. Jean was also a member of the Rose Fellowship, a special group of supporters who have chosen to leave a gift in their Will to Shaftesbury. Jean understood that the gift she left Shaftesbury was not just financial. It reflects the values she held dear and the difference she made to others throughout her life. As we remember Jean’s service with gratitude, we also celebrate the lasting impact the gift she left to us will have on our work.
Could your Legacy help change lives too? Leaving a gift in your Will is a meaningful way to continue to support the causes that matter to you. Even a small gift can help us plan with confidence and provide life-changing support for people with disabilities for generations to come. If you would like more information about leaving a gift in your Will, please contact us on 0191 500 917 or email supporterservices@shaftesburygroup.org
14
Over to you Could you volunteer to help someone grow? We're looking for volunteer Learning Facilitators to support out Learning Together training programme. You'll be great at this if you are good with people, encouraging and confident using simple digital tools. We offer full training and ongoing support. Just a few hours a week could make a huge difference to someone's life. For more information, email volunteering@shaftesburygroup.org
Anita’s not so secret recipe Anita, supported by Shaftesbury East Anglia, enjoys making hearty meals and bringing people together for good conversation. As autumn approaches, why not try her comforting cottage pie?
Ingredients:
• 4 potatoes • Beef mince • Onions (chopped) • Garlic, salt & mixed herbs • Mixed vegetables • Optional: small tin of beans
Method:
1. Prepare the potatoes n boil Peel and chop the potatoes, the milk, ter, but e until soft. Mash with a littl fer. or seasoning – whatever you pre 2. Cook the filling • Fry the onions until soft. ed. • Add the mince and cook until brown bs. her • Season with garlic, salt & mixed • Stir in the mixed vegetables. • If using, add the small tin of beans for extra flavour and texture. 3. Build the pie n dish. • Spoon the mince mixture into an ove ng a fork • Spread the mashed potato on top, usi crisping up!). to make light ridges (perfect for 4. Bake 25 minutes Pop into the oven at 180°C for 20– until golden on top.
15
Shaftesbury Day Driven by his Christian values, the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury dedicated his life to improving the lives of vulnerable people. His legacy continues to inspire us today. For this reason, we’ve designated 1 October 2026 as Shaftesbury Day and will be hosting a celebratory event at Piccadilly Circus in London – home to the memorial fountain built in 1892 in honour of Lord Shaftesbury. Our aim is to connect more people with our work and inspire future generations to support us. For information on how you can get involved scan the QR code or visit shaftesburygroup.org/shaftesbury-day Scan the QR code to find out more
Shaftesbury is the operating name of Livability which is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee in England and Wales. Patron: HRH The Princess Royal. Registered Office: Shaftesbury, Coburg House, 1 Coburg Street, Gateshead, NE8 1NS. Registered Charity No: 1116530 Registered in England No: 5967087. Photos iStock p4/Pavlo Stavnichuk; p6/panchro gelatin; p16/anutr tosirikul; Shutterstock p11/ANL/Shutterstock J168-26