First winners of 30 Wishes initiative revealed 

A rock music fan and a community of performers are the first winners of Lifeways’ 30 Wishes initiative to celebrate the company’s 30th anniversary. 

The 30 Wishes initiative was launched to make dreams come true for the people supported by Lifeways, the UK’s biggest provider of complex support for adults in the community. 

Support workers have been invited to nominate people they support who could do with an extra boost from a dream day out, an unforgettable experience or a spectacular sports or music event. 

Nominations are judged by members of the Lifeways Executive Advisory Panel (LEAP), made up of people we support. 

Our first winner is Scottie who is supported at a service in Herefordshire. He will be off to see one of his favourite bands, Saxon, perform.  

For Scottie, music is his solace, his happy place which brings him calm and peace. As his nomination explained: “Playing the guitar is more than just a hobby; it is a lifeline, a form of expression, and a vital anchor in his daily life.” 

Scottie said: “I really can't believe I won against so many other people! I wasn't expecting to stand out at all. I'm really thankful to everyone who voted for me and thankful for the opportunity, I can't wait to watch Saxon perform in November. Thank you so much!”

Lifeways has also committed cash to a service in Staffordshire which asked for their large communal garden shed to be revamped so it can be used for the 18 people we support to use as a theatre. 

The theatrical residents love to put on performances around Christmas and Halloween time, but the shed, lovingly called “the theatre of dreams”, is rundown and isn’t weather-proofed so they can’t rehearse in the winter. 

The money we’re donating will help them revamp the ‘theatre of dreams’ and provide a place for performances throughout the year. 

Lynne Rowley, the service’s manager, said: “All of the staff team and the 18 people we support are thrilled that our nomination was chosen. Thank you Lifeways for kick starting this project.” 

Andrea Kinkade, Chief Executive of Lifeways, said: “The nominations are coming in thick and fast and it is an absolute privilege for us to be able to help make wishes come true for the amazing people we support to mark our 30th anniversary.  

“This initiative is all about making sure we provide the best possible opportunities for people we support to live lives which are as fulfilled and independent as possible. I’m proud that we are in a position to do that.” 

Watch this space as more wishes are granted.