Captains' Charity                                        

It has been agreed between the Seniors’ and the Ladies’ Captains that the Charity that they will support during their year (2019-20) will be Winchester Go LD, a local charity (registered number 1156536) which has as its object the support and enablement of adults with learning difficulties in Winchester and the surrounding area.

The Charity has evolved over nearly 50 years, since its founding as ‘Winchester and District Mencap Society’ in 1970 and re-launch as ‘Winchester Go LD’ in April 2014, in response to the changes in attitudes to learning disabilities and in order to encourage and enable a more inclusive society through the implementation of innovative ideas. It has received a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and support and recognition from successive Mayors of Winchester, Members of Parliament and from the local community.

In pursuit of its objects the Charity provides services (which include information, sign posting, person-based planning, listening, support, social activity and participation in sport) which assist members to have choice and control and to discover and reach their potential; and it promotes independence through education, daily living skills, training, work readiness and opportunities for employment. Further information can be found on its website: www.winchestergold.org.uk .

[Note from the Seniors’ Captain: I must declare an interest in this charity. I am the parent of a daughter with learning difficulties. We moved here seven years ago; and I can confirm from personal experience that her life has been transformed by the support she has received and the friends she has made through her membership of Winchester Go LD. The Charity makes a huge contribution to her and their quality of life.]