Caritas St Joseph’s is grateful to have received a grant from The Mercers’ Company as a trustee of The Mercers’ Charitable Foundation, to support the work of its Outreach programme helping individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families across the Diocese of Westminster.
The funding will enable the Outreach team to continue providing pastoral support to families. The programme served 350 families in 2024, including through four Connect@ Hubs and six Saturday Clubs in parishes within the diocese, which offer opportunities for people with disabilities to socialise and take part in activities, as well as support and respite for their families. The team also run a Carers’ Forum, where parents and carers of people with disabilities can socialise, seek advice and support, and express their concerns.
Alongside regular events, our Family Link Workers also give tailored, highly specialised support to individuals and families, which can include everything from help with developing practical skills to support with health and wellbeing, benefits and much more, available to all faiths and none.
Gail Williams, Head of Caritas St Joseph’s, commented:
We are seeing a real increase in people seeking support for family members with disabilities, and these funds are crucial in helping us to meet their needs. I am delighted that many outreach centres that closed during the pandemic have reopened, and proud of the many ways — big and small — that our Outreach team helps people to share their gifts and engage with their communities.
Ann Wynne, Grant Programme Manager at The Mercers’ Company, said:
The Outreach team at Caritas St Joseph’s are delivering vital emotional and practical support for adults with intellectual disabilities and their families to improve their wellbeing and overall quality of life. With over 350 families reached in 2024 alone, we look forward to seeing the programme expand and many more families helped in the Diocese of Westminster.
Caritas St Joseph’s helps people with intellectual disabilities to share their gifts and participate in their communities and the life of the Church. The lifelong learning centre in Hendon offers a variety of courses to over 200 students, ranging from accredited creative arts programmes to practical skills for living independently. The team also run extensive outreach activities across the Diocese of Westminster.
Why not support Caritas St Joseph’s by donating or volunteering?
