Three generations of families and individuals supported by Enable Scotland shared their stories from the charity’s history
Nearly 400 guests joined Heather Small of M People and Scottish broadcasters and performers Dougie Vipond, Fred Macaulay and Peter Martin to help Enable raise over £180,000 at the charity’s annual fundraising ball.
This year’s event, which was held at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery, marked 65 years since the charity was established by five sets of parents in Glasgow in 1954 who believed their children, who had learning difficulties, had the same rights as everyone else.
Three generations of families and individuals supported by Enable Scotland shared their stories from the charity’s history – from parents forming local branches to support each other, to supporting people who have a learning disability to live in their own community, and campaigning to make schools and workplaces truly inclusive.
Theresa Shearer, group chief executive, said: “This year marks 65 years since our founding families established what would ultimately become Enable Scotland. We are incredibly proud of the progress we have made in the last six decades towards a more equal society, where every person who has a learning disability is treated as a valued individual within their communities.
“However, we have some way to go and as Scotland’s leading charity for people with learning disabilities, we will continue to campaign and speak up for the rights of those who need it.
“The money raised at this year’s ball will go a long way in helping us to do just that and will allow us to reach many more individuals and families, providing the lifeline they need to break down the barriers in their lives.
“This would not be possible without the generosity of our supporters at the ball and our heartfelt thanks go to all those who have contributed to its success.”
As was revealed recently by TFN, Enable Scotland and Sense Scotland have formally partnered as the Piper Group.
They have a combined income of £60.9 million – and the new set up will save £10m between them.
The charities will retain their distinctive brands and missions but the new group will share resources and oversee back office functions including the IT, HR, learning and development, digital, finance and payroll departments for both charities.
