Winchester Go LD celebrates successful year at AGM

Former Mayor of Winchester Cllr Patrick Cunningham joined a panel of contestants in the winning team at the Winchester Go LD AGM Go-For-It show.

Members and trustees joined Cllr Cunningham to answer questions on Winchester and the charity’s activities.

Winchester Go LD enables adults with learning disabilities to live life to the full with the choices and independence that they want.

READ MORE: Hendog mural appears on bridge at St Catherine's Hill

Jamie Guerrier, co chair of the trustees, thanked the charity's volunteers, staff, and supporters.

Betty Chadwick, CEO, said: “This has been a year like no other. The ongoing cost of living crisis and the significant challenges facing local services to meet the most basic levels of support are all directly impacting our members' lives.

“Winchester Go LD has continued to successfully grow and develop with standout initiatives like our Travel with Confidence project and the day-to-day pastoral care and advocacy that our team provides. We provide information and signposting, identifying needs and speaking out for members’ interests. We also deliver activities to build skills and promote a healthy lifestyle. 

“We give our members a voice, particularly when confronted with difficult choices and decisions involving adult social care, NHS Health Teams, families and support providers. We see the consequences of troubled health and social care systems and when needed we challenge the lack of joined up working. Our team’s insight and experience provide valuable input in helping our members realise and achieve their goals.”

The charity has seen a 16.5 per cent increase in active membership, reflecting a steady year on year trend in growth. In the last three years, membership has expanded by 53 per cent (from 78 to 120), demonstrating a clear increase in need for help by the learning disability community.

For more details, visit winchestergold.org.uk/whats-on/.