our story

 

The charity was established in 1998 to provide information and advice to anyone affected by disability.  The original team consisted of 2 part time staff and 4 volunteers.  In the first year of operation, we were open 9 hours a week and supported approximately 350 clients.

In 2004 we moved from a shared room in The Leonard Cheshire Centre into our current premises in Osborne Road, New Milton.  In addition to providing support with a broad range of information and disability-related welfare benefits applications, we were now able to retail mobility equipment and daily living aids.

In 2008 we began our long-standing service at Lymington NF Hospital, supporting patients and their families with the transition home.

Demand for our advice services grew year on year and by 2012 we were supporting an average of 2,000 clients annually.  The team had grown in size to respond to this level of need, and, out of necessity, we expanded into the first floor of the building.

We now have 7 (P/T) and 1 (F/T) members of staff, and 15 volunteers, overseen by an experienced Board of Trustees.

As well as providing support to anyone of any age, affected by any disability, we are also an essential resource for statutory and voluntary services.