This year’s Families Together at Christmas brought carers, families, and the local community together for a warm, relaxed, and truly inclusive celebration. The event was full of music, laughter, and festive cheer — and it was a wonderful way to celebrate the season together.
From the moment people arrived, the room was filled with joy, connection, and Christmas spirit.
Music, Poetry and Festive Fun
The afternoon featured a brilliant mix of live performances that had everyone smiling, singing, and signing along.
Highlights included:
Poetry from Casey Bailey, which was moving, thoughtful, and uplifting
Sing and Sign Along sessions, making sure everyone could join in
A high-energy performance from the Heavy Beat Brass Band, bringing the festive vibes
A special visit from Santa, which was a big hit with children and families
We were also proud to see Henry Liggins leading the Midland Mencap Choir, who performed beautifully and brought so much heart to the event. Alongside them, the B:Music Staff Choir added even more festive magic, showing the power of community voices coming together.
Thank You to Our Amazing Partners
Events like this are only possible through partnership and teamwork. A huge thank you goes to:
B:Music for their ongoing support and collaboration
Forward Carers for helping us celebrate and recognise carers
The incredible staff and volunteers, who worked behind the scenes to make sure everyone felt welcome, safe, and included
Your support helps us create inclusive spaces where everyone belongs.
Looking Ahead to Next Year
Families Together at Christmas was a beautiful reminder of how important community, carers, and connection are — especially at this time of year. Seeing people come together to share music, creativity, and joy is at the heart of what we do at Midland Mencap.
We already can’t wait to do it all again next year
At Midland Mencap, we love celebrating the interests and achievements of the people we support and Darren’s story is a brilliant example of how our Worcestershire Day Opportunities help people live life to the fullest.
Darren has been supported by Nick, one of our dedicated support workers, for several years. Together, they share a weekly adventure that combines independence, friendship, and one of Darren’s biggest passions — trains!
What started as short journeys to Birmingham Snow Hill has grown into regular rail adventures to places like Gloucester, Bristol, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Evesham, Malvern, and Herefordshire. Darren and Nick often enjoy lunch at a local Wetherspoons and make time for a bit of trainspotting before heading home.
“I like going to see all the shops in the town and walking around the station looking at the trains. Nick helps me buy my ticket and supports me with paying.” says Darren proudly.
For Darren, these journeys aren’t just about travel. They’re about confidence, connection, and doing what he loves most.
His next destination?
“I’d like to go to Evesham next,” he says with a smile.
Stories like Darren’s show how our Worcestershire Day Opportunities team supports people to live independently, explore their communities, and build meaningful experiences every day.
If you’d like to learn more about our Worcestershire Day Opportunities Service and how we can support you or someone you know email: worcesterenquiries@midlandmencap.org.uk or call 07591 596 263
This Trustee Week, we’re delighted to introduce Mel Roberts, Midland Mencap’s new Chair of Trustees.
Mel brings over 30 years of leadership experience and a real passion for inclusion, community, and citizen-led change. We caught up with her to learn more about her background, motivations, and hopes for the future.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?
I’m an accountant by background, but I’ve spent more than 30 years in senior leadership roles, mostly across large international healthcare organisations. Today, I have what I like to call a “portfolio career” — I’m a Non-Executive Director, Trustee, and founder of Evol, a consultancy that helps leaders and organisations grow through strategy, coaching, and developing high-performance cultures.
What attracted you to join Midland Mencap as a Trustee, and what inspired you to become Chair?
A chance conversation with a former colleague first opened my eyes to the breadth and scale of Midland Mencap’s work. When I met Dave Rogers and the team, I immediately felt that the charity’s values aligned with my own.
With my background in health and domiciliary care, the citizen-led approach really resonated with me. Becoming a Trustee—and now Chair—felt like the perfect way to bring together my purpose, values, and experience to help the organisation go further, together.
Why is supporting people with learning disabilities and their families important to you?
Everyone deserves a good life with choice, dignity, and connection. Families and unpaid carers carry so much, often quietly, and I think that deserves recognition and support.
It’s a privilege to work with an organisation whose mission is to empower people with learning disabilities to live independently and confidently, surrounded by inclusive community services.
What inspires you most about Midland Mencap’s work?
The strength of the citizen voice and the charity’s genuine commitment to co-production. Services here are built around real lives, not the other way round.
Every day, I see the dedication of our teams and volunteers removing barriers and creating safe, welcoming spaces where people can thrive. That’s what makes Midland Mencap so special.
What do you hope to bring to the role of Chair?
I’d like to bring calm, clarity, and connection. My focus will be on providing strong governance, practical support for the Executive Team, and fostering a Board culture that’s purposeful, constructive, and forward-thinking.
With several new Trustees joining and a long-serving Chair stepping down, it’s an exciting moment to reflect on how we work together and how we can continue delivering impact that lasts.
What are your ambitions for Midland Mencap over the next few years?
We’re developing our new five-year strategy, so I won’t give too much away yet! But my priorities are to:
Strengthen citizen voice and co-creation in everything we do.
Secure sustainable funding and partnerships.
Make sure our services are simple to find and easy to use.
Ultimately, it’s about ensuring more people can access the right support, when and where they need it.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
In my twenties, I actually had ambitions to play ice hockey for the Nottingham Vipers! I passed all my ice-skating grades right up to level 10, which surprises most people who know me only through my professional life.
Do you have a message you’d like to share with Midland Mencap’s citizens, carers, and supporters?
I’m honoured to serve as Chair. Thank you for your trust, your voices, and your support — they guide everything we do. Together, we’ll keep helping people live well, feel connected, and be part of their communities.
A Message from Dave Rogers, CEO
“As CEO, I’m genuinely excited to welcome Mel as our new Chair. She brings a wealth of experience, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to inclusion and empowerment.
Her leadership will be instrumental in guiding Midland Mencap through the next stage of our journey — strengthening our voice, expanding our reach, and ensuring people with learning disabilities and their families thrive. I’m looking forward to working closely with Mel to shape an inspiring future for everyone connected to Midland Mencap.”
On Sunday 5th October, our annual event took place at Sutton Park in what was another successful, inclusive celebration of sport and community. The event was open to everyone who wanted to take part, with options to run various lengths, including 1km, 5km, and 10km. On the crisp autumn morning, our participants bravely battled the cold air and gave it their all — and we couldn’t have been prouder of everyone who participated and those who came to support.
The Sutton Park Challenge is truly a unique race, not only because of the beautiful setting but also because of its strong commitment to inclusivity. We are passionate about welcoming and encouraging everyone to take part, regardless of ability, age, or experience. Our goal is to create an event where all participants feel valued, supported, and motivated to enjoy the day. We were thrilled to see a wide range of people come together to participate in the event. Some of our athletes were frequent runners who chose to challenge themselves by running solo around the park, while many others ran with their dogs, families, and children.
There were several wheelchair users who participated together with their family and friends around the hilly course, highlighting the spirit of support and inclusivity that defined this day. People were also able to cycle along the route in either an accessible bike or trike if they wished. The event was suitable for everyone to join, and the route followed paths around Sutton Park that were accessible for both runners and cyclists.
Before the Challenge began, participants were busy warming up and getting ready with the support of friends and family, helping to create a warm, welcoming community atmosphere. There was a tent where athletes could register and receive their race numbers, and a coffee van offering hot and cold drinks for people to enjoy. The atmosphere was filled with positivity and excitement as people began to line up at the start line, surrounded by the cheerful encouragement of supporters. Running Marshalls both led and followed the race to ensure everyone stayed on the correct path, felt safe, and received any medical attention if needed. Their presence helped maintain a smooth, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for all involved.
Our staff and volunteers were stationed at various points along the course to help direct participants and provide encouragement throughout the event. The atmosphere was incredibly friendly, with words of support and motivation shared by staff, volunteers, and participants alike. At the finish line, families, friends, and supporters eagerly waited for our athletes to complete the event. As each person crossed the finish line, waves of cheers and applause erupted, congratulating them on their success. It was a deeply emotional moment for many, as participants, filled with pride and satisfaction, were reunited with their friends and family and presented with their well-earned medals.
After the 5km and 10km events had concluded, the participants of the 1km Challenge began to line up in preparation. This run was designed to be accessible for everyone, with children making up the majority of participants. There was an overwhelming sense of pride and joy from friends, families, and supporters as these young athletes set off on their run. Just like the other Challenges, the finish line was filled with friendly faces ready to celebrate their achievements — making it a memorable moment for everyone involved.
This year’s Sutton Park Challenge once again captured our mission to promote inclusivity and create opportunities for everyone to get involved. We want to congratulate every participant for your enormous achievement — we are so proud of you! And a huge thank you to all the supporters who came along to cheer — your enthusiasm and encouragement helped make the day so special.
At the end of September, we said a very emotional goodbye to our inspirational Chair, Martin Gallagher, who has stepped down after an incredible twenty-three years of service to Midland Mencap.
During those years, Martin has given unwavering support and guidance, helping to steer Midland Mencap through a period of remarkable growth and change. His leadership, insight, loyalty, and friendship have shaped who we are today.
Martin’s commitment to supporting our leadership team has been truly exceptional. His encouragement has allowed us to explore new ideas and seize opportunities that have helped drive Midland Mencap forward.
Throughout his professional career, Martin has been a powerful advocate for people with a learning disability. Known for being a passionate speaker, deep thinker, and strong strategist, Martin has left a lasting mark on the learning disability community. His legacy is one of dedication, courage, and a lifelong commitment to improving the lives of people with a learning disability and their families.
We thank Martin from the bottom of our hearts for everything he has done. We will miss him deeply and wish him every happiness for the future.
Thank you, Martin — from everyone at Midland Mencap.
Midland Mencap’s Community Hub, based at Weoley Castle Community Centre, is celebrating a major milestone in its ten-year partnership with Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG) by showcasing an inspiring new exhibition this September created by adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.
The exhibition, on display at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery until 30th September, highlights the power of creativity and inclusion through self-portraits, neurographic art, storytelling, poetry, and digital works. Inspired by the museum’s Made in Birmingham exhibition, members of the Community Hub explored their self-identity and place within the city.
This project is the result of true co-production, with members shaping the design and delivery of activities alongside artists and heritage partners. Collaborations with Unravelled Mind Studio and The Curious Project provided further opportunities for members to share their stories and talents.
Paul Jones, Senior Operations Manager for Community Services at Midland Mencap, said:
“This exhibition is about voice, visibility, and belonging. For too long, people with learning disabilities and autism have been excluded from cultural spaces. Here we proudly celebrate their creativity, talent, and vital place in Birmingham’s cultural life.”
Andrea Bonnell, Participation Manager, Birmingham Museums Trust, said:
“We’re so pleased to be able to host this exhibition at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery as part of our partnership with Midland Mencap”
“It’s a celebration of creativity, community and the stories that connect us and we are delighted to be able to share it with our visitors.”
“Our community display space only exists because of conversations had with groups like Midland Mencap and for this we are really grateful.”
The exhibition reflects Midland Mencap’s long-term commitment to ensuring that adults with learning disabilities and/or autism can access meaningful opportunities for self-expression, community connection, and cultural participation.
Exhibition Details:
Venue: Industrial Gallery, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3DH. Part of the Made in Birmingham exhibition.
Dates: Open now until 30th September
Admission: Free
About Midland Mencap
Midland Mencap is a leading charity in the West Midlands, supporting people with learning disabilities, their families and Carers to live happy, independent, and fulfilled lives through community activities, housing, care, and support services.
Birmingham Museums Trust is an independent charitable trust (no 1147014) formed in 2012 to care for over one million objects and nine museums. We share the city’s diverse collections, stories and spaces with the people of Birmingham and beyond thanks to regular funding from Birmingham City Council and Arts Council England, as well as the kind support of many individuals, companies and charitable trusts.
Henry Liggins runs The Curious Project, a social enterprise operating in and around Birmingham. Through it, he delivers several programmes, all of which use music and the creative arts to help people engage with creativity in an intentional way. Henry has worked in collaboration with Midland Mencap since 2021, delivering projects around poetry, visual arts, music performance and songwriting among other things.
Founded by local Birmingham Artist Charlotte Marler, Unravelled Mind Studio is a Birmingham based creative practice focused on blending mental health and art. We deliver therapeutic workshops that support emotional expression and wellbeing through activities. In partnership with Midland Mencap, we’ve developed inclusive, artist-led sessions that support individuals with learning disabilities to explore self-expression, develop confidence, and create work for this public exhibition.
Midland Mencap is delighted to announce that it has secured new funding for 12 months from Sport England to continue delivering its highly popular Inclusive Cycling Project, parkride.
This vital support will enable the charity to offer inclusive and adaptive cycling opportunities to individuals of all ages and abilities across the West Midlands region and surrounding areas.
The funding ensures that Midland Mencap can continue providing a safe, supportive, and fun environment for people to enjoy the benefits of cycling within their local communities. With a fleet of adapted and mainstream bikes, and a team of experienced staff, parkride removes barriers to cycling. It helps people get active, stay healthy, and connect with their local communities.
“We are thrilled to receive this support from Sport England. This investment builds on the project’s proven success in improving physical and mental wellbeing, reducing isolation, and encouraging long-term participation in sport and physical activity.” said Pam Johnson, Midland Mencap Community Operations Manager. “Cycling should be accessible for everyone. With this funding, we can expand our reach, improve access, and make sure that no one is left behind when it comes to enjoying the freedom and independence that cycling can bring.”
98% of parkride participants told us it had improved their health and wellbeing.Oliver Clayton, who regularly attends parkride sessions said:
“parkride is such great fun and I have cycled all over the West Midlands with their support”
Get involved:
Inclusive cycling sessions run weekly and are open to everyone.
Call to speak to one of the parkride team on 0121 442 2944.
At Midland Mencap, our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do – and this #VolunteersWeek, we’ve had a brilliant time celebrating the difference they make every single day.
A Week of Thanks, Fun, and Community
Across the region, we’ve been showing our appreciation in lots of special ways:
Citizens got creative, making heartfelt thank-you cards and jars
Our team visited Worcester to talk about all the ways people can get involved
We shared inspiring stories about our volunteers and the huge impact they have
Each story was a powerful reminder that volunteering changes lives – not just for those supported, but for the volunteers too.
Meet a Few of Our Volunteer Heroes
We’re proud to shout out just a few of the incredible individuals who give their time and energy to Midland Mencap:
David, our Community Café cook, keeps everyone smiling with his delicious meals
Di Tate, our creative Activity Volunteer, brings colour and joy to every session
As part of #VolunteersWeek, we’re shining a spotlight on Di Tate, a retired special school leader whose warmth, creativity, and can-do spirit have made a huge impact at Midland Mencap. From art sessions to recording original songs with citizens, Di brings joy wherever she goes.
Darren, our Sport and Football Coach, inspires others to get active and build confidence through sport
And of course, a very special thank-you goes to Tessa Cole, our Volunteer Manager, whose passion and care have made this week truly memorable for everyone.
Get Involved
We couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers. If you’d like to find out how you can make a difference, visit our Volunteering page to learn more.
At Midland Mencap, our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.
As part of Volunteer Week, we’re shining a spotlight on one of our incredible volunteers, Di Tate, whose passion and positivity brighten every session she attends.
From Special Education to Special Moments
Di began volunteering with us in September 2024 after retiring from her role as an assistant head at a local special school — a position she held for 42 years. Looking for a meaningful way to stay connected locally, she chose to get involved with Midland Mencap after having worked with us in the past.
“I thought I would enjoy being a small part of the amazing work at the Hub,” Di shared.
Getting Stuck In
Since joining, Di has thrown herself into all kinds of activities — from line dancing and art to bake-offs and leafleting. She’s also become a regular at our music and singing sessions, always ready to lend a hand wherever it’s needed.
One of her favourite memories? Helping Henry and a group of citizens write and record two original songs.
“It was an incredible afternoon at the MAC’s recording studio. Everyone was so proud of what they achieved – two amazing tracks filled with emotion and creativity.”
Why Di Recommends Volunteering
Di speaks passionately about the joy and fulfilment she’s found as a volunteer:
Flexible and rewarding
A warm, welcoming environment
The chance to meet inspiring people — both citizens and staff
Her message to anyone thinking about volunteering?
“Go for it – you’ll have an amazing time!”
Thank You, Di!
We’re so grateful to Di and all our volunteers for the time, energy, and care they give to our community. Your efforts make a real difference.
When Diahann first applied for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) several years ago, her application was sadly rejected. Feeling discouraged, she believed it wasn’t worth trying again. However, during a routine review of her support, her Lead Worker at Midland Mencap encouraged her to reconsider. He explained that she could be entitled to PIP and offered to support her through the process.
Full Support Every Step of the Way
Diahann’s Lead Worker helped her complete the PIP application, gather the necessary evidence, and prepare for the telephone assessment. Throughout, he made sure that Diahann fully understood each stage, helping her feel confident, calm, and well-prepared.
Although the process was lengthy, the effort paid off. Diahann was awarded enhanced rates for both daily living and mobility needs. She also received a £2,000 back payment, which has had a huge impact on her life.
A Life-Changing Result
The successful PIP award has lifted a great weight from Diahann’s shoulders. With the extra financial support, she now lives more comfortably and can apply for further help such as a Blue Badge. This will make it much easier for her to get out and about with her family, increasing her independence and quality of life.
Diahann said:
“I have been recently awarded PIP, I feel extremely happy as I didn’t think it would happen for me. This has been a huge help for me financially and Midland Mencap has supported me through everything.”
We are incredibly proud to have supported Diahann on her journey.
