Leonard Cheshire

11/08/2026

What would politics look like if more disabled people were part of the conversation? 💜

In 2026, Gina Patel stood as an independent candidate in her local elections. She wanted people who feel overlooked or unheard to have a stronger voice.

In her blog, Gina shares her experience and her message to the new Prime Minister.

She speaks about the importance of investing in social care, improving support for disabled people and making sure politicians understand the real challenges people face every day.

Gina writes:
"With the right support, disabled people can thrive. So please recognise that we need that support."

From social care to employment, Gina believes better support systems can help disabled people achieve their goals and take part fully in society.

Read her story:

After becoming an independent candidate in the 2026 local elections, Gina Patel opens up about her experience in politics, the barriers disabled people face and her message for the new Prime Minister

29/07/2026

Today's deeply personal speech by Andy Burnham should mark a turning point in adult social care reform.

In public debate, social care is so often reduced to questions about paying for care or pressure on the NHS. As a result, the conversation can overlook what social care really is: vital support that helps working-age disabled adults and older people live well.

Around half of us will need care and support at some point in our lives, and most of us will have loved ones who need it too. Yet too often, people recognise its importance only when they face a crisis.

The reality is that funding remains nowhere near enough to meet growing demand for care and support across the country.

We welcome the launch of a national conversation on social care and the Prime Minister's commitment to act. It must be the start of a serious effort to ensure that people of all ages can access the care and support they need, when they need it.

In a speech, the prime minister calls for a "national care service" and says he wants to "lift up" the workforce through pay and training.

28/07/2026

We are so proud of our team at Bradbury Wing 💜

Their latest Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection has rated the service Good in all areas, recognising the quality of care and support they provide every day.

The report highlights what this looks like in practice, including care where staff:

“Treat people with kindness, compassion and dignity.”
and build strong relationships by:
“Understanding people’s individual needs.”

It also found that people are supported to have real:
“Choice and control over their own care and wellbeing.”

This is what great care looks like. A place where people feel respected, understood and supported every day.

Thank you to the whole team for everything you do. This is so well deserved.

See what CQC said in full:
leonardcheshire.org/about-us/our-news/press-releases/newcastle-care-home-disabled-adults-rated-good-all-areas-cqc

🏡 Find out how to live at Bradbury Wing: https://leonardcheshire.org/get-support/living/care-homes/bradbury-wing-newcastle

14/07/2026

Missed out in the London Marathon ballot? Don't hang up your trainers just yet - we've got your back.

Leonard Cheshire has Sunday charity places available, giving you the chance to take on the iconic 26.2 miles through London while raising vital funds to support disabled people to live on their terms.

From the start line to the finish, we'll be cheering you on every step of the way. Together, we can create moments to be proud of.

Make your marathon moment matter.

Register for a Leonard Cheshire Sunday charity place now: https://bit.ly/4yc58p0

Let's change lives together 💜

24/06/2026

Have you ever thought about running the London Marathon?

2027 could be your year.

It is early mornings. It is long runs. It is pushing yourself further than you thought possible. But it is also something so much more.

When you run for Leonard Cheshire, you are helping provide care and support for disabled people. And along the way, something changes in you too.

One runner said,
“I never thought I could do it. But the moment I crossed that finish line, I realised I was capable of so much more.”

Another told us,
“Hearing my name being called and knowing what I was running for is something I will never forget.”

We will be with you every step of the way. Supporting you, encouraging you and celebrating with you on race day.

👉 Register your interest today:
leonardcheshire.org/get-involved/find-event/london-marathon-2027

Start something you will always be proud of 💜

09/06/2026

Thinking about care options near Swadlincote and not sure where to start?

Finding the right home can feel like a big decision. At Newlands House, we take the time to listen, understand and support you every step of the way.

Our team focuses on getting to know each person, so support feels personal and right for them. Whether it is enjoying activities, spending time with others or simply having space to relax, daily life is shaped around what matters most.

Choosing the right home is an important step, and we are here to help you make that decision with confidence.

👉 Find out more or start your enquiry:
leonardcheshire.org/get-support/living/care-homes/newlands-house-swadlincote

Get in touch to arrange a visit or speak to the team.

Newlands House, in the peaceful village of Netherseal in Derbyshire, supports up to 37 disabled adults to live their lives to the full. Close to beautiful parklands, you’re in the perfect location for tranquillity and peace. Nearby is the historic market town of Ashby de la Zouch. Our home is very...

26/05/2026

Looking for a care home in Cheltenham?

Gloucestershire House currently has availability and is ready to welcome new residents.

Our team provides high quality, person centred care in a friendly and supportive environment. We take time to get to know each person, so care feels personal, comfortable and right for them.

Day to day life includes a mix of activities, social time and quiet moments, depending on what each person enjoys. Whether it is spending time with others, taking part in activities or simply having the space to relax, we support people in a way that suits them.

One resident said, “I enjoy the activities and spending time with people here. It has made a real difference.”

Whether you are exploring options for yourself or a loved one, we are here to help you take the next step with confidence.

Find out more about Gloucestershire House:
https://bit.ly/4nId8sV

Get in touch to arrange a visit or speak to the team.

21/05/2026

At Hill House, we are always looking at how we can give the people we support more choice in their care.

In this story, we share how our assistive technology team worked with Sam to help her play a leading role in choosing her support team.

Using her communication device, she now reviews applications, helps shortlist candidates and leads interviews by asking the questions herself.

This support means she can see how people communicate with her and decide who feels right to be part of her daily life. It is a powerful example of how the right care and support can build confidence, increase independence and improve everyday experiences for residents.

You can read the full story, including how our team made this possible, below.

At Hill House, the phrase ‘nothing about us without us’ is more than a slogan. For us, it is a commitment to putting people at the centre of decisions that affect their lives.

07/05/2026

Meet Ashley 👋
He’s lived at Fethneys for several years and knows exactly what makes it so good.:

“One of the best things about Fethneys is the staff. They know what matters to me, and they help me to do what I want to do.”

Ashley is a huge sports fan and gamer. With the right support, he regularly travels to watch West Ham United, Northampton Saints rugby, and local teams — and when he’s happy staying in, you’ll find him watching films or playing FC26 on his PlayStation.

Just as important are friendships. Ashley and fellow resident Ryan share laughs, football banter and a real sense of community that makes Fethneys feel like home.

Read Ashley’s story and find out how great support and strong friendships help people live life their way:
👉 https://www.leonardcheshire.org/our-impact/stories/ashley-life-fethneys-residential-home-great-support-and-firm-friendships

Interested in life at Fethneys?
✨ Get in touch with us today.

25/04/2026

Good luck to all our amazing TCS London Marathon runners.

As race day approaches, we want to say a heartfelt thank you for choosing to take on this challenge for Leonard Cheshire. The commitment and determination you have shown mean so much to all of us.

Every mile you run is helping provide the best possible care for disabled people. It supports our residents to have more choice, more independence and the confidence to live their lives in the way that is right for them.

We will be there in person on race day to cheer you on and show our support.

We are incredibly proud of you and so grateful for the difference you are making💜