LifeworksChildrens Charity

CEO of Lifeworks

Lifeworks began in 1996 as a registered charity and limited company called 'The Bidwell Brook Foundation'.

Founded by a group of parents and teachers who were determined to make a difference to the lives of families with learning disabled children, the charity is managed by a board of unpaid volunteer trustees with a diverse range of expertise.

The ethos at the heart of Lifeworks is to provide fair opportuinities in life for people with learning disabilities, especially with regard to education, a safe home, the ability to work and social inclusion. The Charity now delivers a wide range of programmes, projects and services, with its Centre at Dartington Hall Estate in Devon.

Lifeworks has built and runs a successful respite centre, Saturday youth clubs (Kool Clubs), after school education and training programmes (Life Skills Academy), residential homes for children (Robins) and adults (Sesame), a Further Education College, surfing events (Breaking the Barrier) and many other events and projects.

Lifeworks is not a static charity, we are ever evolving and changing. We will always look at new projects that will bridge the gaps and support the needs of the young people we look after and the challenges they face.

Richard Hanlon.

Charity History

  • In 1995 - The need for families to have a respite centre in the area identified.
  • In 1996 - The Charity formed as The Bidwell Brook Foundation and fundraising for the respite centre started
  • In 1999 - ROBINS RESPITE CENTRE opened by the Princess Royal
  • In 2000 - KOOL CLUB Saturday youth clubs opened
  • In 2006 - Charity trading name changed to LIFEWORKS
  • In 2006 - The LIFE SKILLS ACADEMY started
  • In 2007 - BREAKING THE BARRIER surf events started
  • In 2009 - The SESAME residential house in Torquay opened
  • In 2011 - LIFEWORKS FE COLLEGE opened
  • 2013 - LIFEWORKS CHARITY LTD now our registered charity and company name

OUR STAFF

Lifeworks' employees are its greatest asset.

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OUR TRUSTEES

Lifeworks' trustees ensure that the charity stays on course and continues to thrive

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OUR PATRONS

Are Ambassadors who help us to promote the needs and aspirations of people with learning disabilities

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