Brighter Horizons

Brighter Horizons is an independent charity based in southeast London, dedicated to providing support services for neurodivergent adults and those with learning disabilities. The charity was established in response to a need for community support following the cessation of local council day service provisions for adults with learning disabilities.

History

Brighter Horizons was conceived in 2015 by a group of concerned parent-carers who recognized the gap in support services for their grown children. The charity's first day centre opened in January 2016 at the Downham Community Centre, initially serving 22 families. Over time, the charity has expanded its reach, tripling in size and now supporting more than 65 service users each week. Its team has also grown from a modest six people to 18 carers and a small support staff.

Services

The charity offers opportunities for personal and social development through various activities. These services are designed to enable independence, build community, and foster a sense of belonging among its service users. Activities include daytime care services, catering to a range of needs such as physical disabilities, sensory needs, autism, and mental health. More than half of the activities take place within the community, emphasizing integration and social interaction. Brighter Horizons also operates a small fleet of minibuses to facilitate this community engagement.

Governance

The charity is led by a Board of seven Trustees, who are responsible for managing all aspects of the organisation's work, including finances, health and safety, risk, compliance, strategy, and staff management.

Values

Brighter Horizons prioritizes several core values, including:

• People First: Placing service users at the heart of all operations.
• Integrity & Respect: Conducting services with honesty and respect for all individuals.
• Inclusive and Accessible: Ensuring that services are accessible to everyone in need.
• Fun: Integrating enjoyment and positivity into the activities and environment.

Impact

By providing vital support services and fostering community integration, Brighter Horizons has become a critical component of social care in southeast London. The charity's commitment to supporting neurodiverse and learning-disabled adults has helped create a more inclusive and supportive local environment.

[1] https://solutions.brighthorizons.co.uk/about-us/foundation [2] https://www.brighter-horizons.org [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/5139593 [4] https://www.brighter-horizons.org/ourpeople [5] https://www.brighthorizons.co.uk/about/foundation-for-children