Latest winners of our 30 Wishes initiative revealed

As part of our 30th anniversary celebrations, we’re proud to be making dreams come true for the people we support across the country.  
  
Earlier this year, we committed to granting 30 wishes across 2025 and invited Lifeways colleagues to nominate people we support for a once-in-a-lifetime treat - something meaningful, fun, or unforgettable. 

In June, four more incredible individuals were selected and their stories show just how powerful a little joy can be. 

Summerhouse makeover to fuel creativity at Barleycombe 

An ambitious plan to transform a summerhouse into a leisure hub has taken its first steps thanks to a 30 Wishes donation. 

The structure at our Barleycombe residential service in Suffolk was damaged in storms earlier this year which scuppered plans to turn it into a den, complete with pool table, football table, sofas and a kitchenette. 

The summerhouse has played many roles over the years - a tuck shop during lockdowns, a cinema, an ice cream parlour, a sensory centre and even a Santa’s grotto! 

But thanks to the 30 Wishes donation, repair work can be done so the team can move ahead with their plans. 

Stuart, one of the people we support at Barleycombe, said: “I am so happy. The repairs were very needed, about time! We can have our bar back now, and do our movie nights, and enjoy doing things out here again, I am so excited! 

His pal Daniel said: “I love our summerhouse and our garden and I can’t wait for it to be fixed.” 

Registered Manager Angela Dodds said: “I am absolutely thrilled that Barleycombe has been chosen for the 30 wishes campaign. It means a lot to me and to all the people who live here, as well as the staff, we are all like one big family and we all give 100% into trying to make Barleycombe a better place to live.”

Talented Alastair heading for Comic Con dream 

Alastair, a person in a supported living service in Northumberland was delighted to learn he will be going to Comic Con in London. 

Alastair attends a group called Inspired Support for Animation where he designs bookmarks and displays his work. He is now reviewing video games and creating characters to the point where it has become his passion.  

His dream is to attend Comic Con in London having previously attended events in Edinburgh and Newcastle.  

He said: “I’m so excited to have won. Comic Con is my most favourite thing ever!”  

Service Manager Jackie Hardy-Dixon, said: “This is such a fantastic prize and Alastair can’t wait to start planning. I am incredibly grateful that my nomination was chosen for 30 Wishes!” 

Garden makeover for four pals in Cleethorpes 

Four friends who love hanging out in the garden of their supported living service in Cleethorpes are getting new furniture to enjoy their outdoor space even more! 

Marcus, Steve, Kevin and Wayne are thrilled to be getting improved furniture for the garden. 

Steve said: “I’m so happy. I can’t wait to sit out in the garden on the new furniture.” 

And Wayne said: “I’m looking forward to having a barbecue and being able to eat in comfort on the new furniture.” 

Support Worker Jadene Kershaw said: “I am beyond excited for our four gents. I nominated them for 30 Wishes because due to financial limitations and deteriorating health, the garden was somewhat neglected.  

“But all four gents enjoy sitting out there, watching the birds or having a cup of tea. But they’ve been limited this year because we’ve had no furniture. This will enhance their wellbeing and quality of life. Personally the gents bring me a lot of happiness and put a smile on my face so I am so happy that I entered and can give them something back.” 

Keep an eye out for more incredible stories as we continue to grant special wishes during our anniversary year.    
  
Founded in 1995, Lifeways has grown into the UK’s largest provider of community support for people with complex needs. Thirty years on, we remain committed to making a difference.  

Find out more here: https://lifeways.co.uk/about-us/about-lifeways