Meet the latest winners of our 30 Wishes initiative

As part of Lifeways’ 30th anniversary celebrations, our 30 Wishes campaign continues to grant dreams of up to £500 to people we support across the country.  

Each wish helps create memorable experiences, open new opportunities, or make everyday life a little brighter. We’re delighted to announce our latest winners and to share their stories: 

Jessie – launching a podcast

Jessie is known for her passion, energy and dedication to supporting others. She’s made a real impact on her peers, staff, and even the Executive Leadership Team at Lifeways. Now, Jessie is embarking on an exciting new project – launching her very own podcast. 

Her wish will help fund essential equipment such as a light-up sign and microphones, enabling her to produce a high-quality podcast. Jessie hopes her show will break down barriers and give people a chance to connect with “the people behind the profession.” 

Jessie said: “I was shocked, in a good way of course. It hadn’t sunk in yesterday when I was told but now I am proud and excited to be able to continue with my podcast and make the quality so much better.”  

Service Manager Sarah Eastwood said: “I know this will mean the world to Jessie, so I am so grateful for this opportunity for her. I am hoping people can see the passion she has when we release the first podcast, and hopefully with this she can make them even better.” 

Residents at Cornmill House – a welcoming Breakfast Club

At Cornmill House in Leeds, residents have been enjoying coming together for a growing Breakfast Club. However, their small communal space was in need of a spruce-up to make these gatherings more comfortable and welcoming. 

Their wish will be used to brighten up and improve the space, helping residents start the day together in a warm, friendly environment that encourages connection and community. 

Teresa Smith, Service Manager, said: “As the manager of Cornmill House I am extremely happy we’ve been granted this wish. The team and people we support have been holding events throughout the year to raise funds for the project so this has given the Cornmill Team the encouragement and drive they so greatly deserve.” 

A trip to Whitby Gothic Festival 

A person we support has been setting himself new goals at his day centre – from dancing along with an Elvis impersonator to making pizzas and even allowing his photo to be taken as a record of his progress. 

For his wish, this amazing person will take a special bus trip with his friend to Whitby Gothic Festival. With staff support, he’ll enjoy a meal out, meet people in costume, and capture the experience in photos he can share proudly with friends and staff. This trip is a big step forward in his journey of confidence and participation.  

A thrilling theatre experience 

After recently becoming unwell and starting to use a wheelchair, a person we support has been adjusting to changes in his daily life. To bring some joy and a sense of community, his wish is to enjoy a special day out with his friend and two staff members. 

He will travel by wheelchair-accessible taxi to the Sunderland Empire Theatre, where he’ll attend a relaxed matinee performance of Mary Poppins the Musical. The outing will give him the chance to share a fun and memorable experience with his friend while enjoying the magic of live theatre. 

A birthday to remember 

A lady we support from Lincoln, has had a very tough year and was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness. To bring some joy and comfort at a difficult time, her wish is to celebrate her birthday in August in a truly special way, surrounded by the people who mean the most to her. 

This wish will help create treasured memories for this amazing lady and her loved ones to hold onto. 

Celebrating 30 years with 30 wishes 

These inspiring stories show how even a small wish can make a big difference – whether through friendship, creativity, new experiences, or shared joy. 

Andrea Kinkade, Chief Executive Officer of Lifeways, said: “We know that supporting people is supporting people to live enriching lives which are as independent as possible. The 30 Wishes initiative is a wonderful way to help people we support enjoy experiences that enhance their wellbeing, create happy memories, and strengthen connections with others. 

“What this initiative has really shone a light on is the creativity and resilience of the people we support and how simple changes – such as new garden furniture or a trip to the theatre – can make such an impact.” 

We’ll be revealing more wishes soon as we continue celebrating 30 years of Lifeways. Click here for more about our three decades in care: ‘I’m so proud’: Lifeways’ founding father reflects on the company’s 30th anniversary | Lifeways