Who We Are &
What We Do...
Latest
News
67th Annual General Meeting Complete - Full Report available HERE!
We are looking for new Trustees - Find our more HERE!
Raised So Far: £10.00
Welcome,
to the website of The Catholic
Fellowship Disability Network. We are a registered charity and voluntary organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families of all faiths and none across the Diocese of Brentwood (Essex & East London).
This wonderful charity has been in existence since 1962. Our mission is simple but important, to serve people with disabilities and their families from all faiths and none by creating a supportive community and promote opportunity through our network and events.
Our charity is run by volunteers and lead by our Trustees and CEO, who are dedicated to keeping our community strong and vibrant. From swimming events at Leyton Lagoon to family disco's, bi-weekly pub group for adults, Saturday club for adults, theatre trips, family BBQ's, seaside coach trips, adventure days at Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning and much more, we offer a diverse range of events to suit everyone's interests.
At the Catholic Fellowship Disability Network, we believe that everyone deserves to feel included and part of a supportive community whilst promoting what's possible. We are committed to continue promoting the long legacy that has been built over 60+ years, by many of the amazing volunteers and members past and present.
Our charity is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve, and we rely on our amazing volunteers to help us achieve our mission.
If you're looking for a friendly and supportive community, we encourage you to join us and discover what the Catholic Fellowship can offer you and your family. Thank you for visiting our website, and we look forward to welcoming you to our community.
How are Charitable Funds are Spent...
We rely on fundraising, donations and grants to undertake our activities. Our supporters help fund a huge range of projects and activities with 51p in every £1 going directly on these activities that have a direct impact on people with disabilities and their families across Essex and East London. Over the last 6 years we have seen a 14% increase in our overhead and administrative cost like many charities but we continue to ensure our charitable spend rains higher.
We are continually looking for new ways to fundraise and people to help us continue our projects and services. If your interested in supporting us or volunteering a few hours a month, please get in touch.
Our Trustees
Our Group Chairs
Teresa McHale (Executive Chair)
Louis Vella (Havering Chair)
Teresa McHale (Ilford Chair)
Nicole Squires (Wanstead & Woodford Chair)
A Message From The Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Ruscoe
As the newly appointed CEO of this remarkable charity, I am honoured and humbled to welcome you to our vibrant and inclusive community. It is with great pride that I join this organization, which has been serving individuals with disabilities and their families for an impressive 60 years.
First and foremost, I extend a warm welcome to all our new members. Whether you are a person with a disability seeking support, a family member seeking understanding and camaraderie, or a compassionate individual who believes in our mission, you are an invaluable addition to our growing family. Your presence enriches our community and strengthens our resolve to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
I must also take this moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to our amazing volunteers. Your dedication and selflessness have been the cornerstone of this charity's success over the years.
Without your unwavering commitment, we would not have been able to create the vibrant and supportive community that defines The Catholic Fellowship Disability Network. Each one of you is an inspiration, and I am truly honoured to work alongside you in this noble cause.
As I step into this role, I feel a deep sense of connection and understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities and their families. Having a brother with Asperger's Syndrome and ADHD, I have personally witnessed the resilience and strength that define those with unique abilities. Additionally, my experience as a Specialist Paramedic Practitioner in the NHS has allowed me to work across various clinical and strategic roles, providing me with valuable insights into the diverse needs of our community.
Let us also take a moment to pay homage to our founder, Elizabeth Fitzroy, whose vision and compassion led to the inception of this wonderful charity back in the 1950s. Her pioneering spirit created the foundation for what we have become today, and we carry forward her legacy with pride and dedication.
Throughout our history, we have continued to evolve and expand our reach, welcoming individuals from all faiths and none, just as our founder had envisioned. We stand strong as a supportive community, promoting opportunities and nurturing personal growth for everyone.
As we embark on this journey together, I am filled with hope and enthusiasm for the future of The Catholic Fellowship Disability Network. Together, let us build upon our rich legacy, deepen our impact, and champion inclusivity and understanding in all that we do.
Thank you for being a part of this transformative community. Your support and participation are the driving force behind our success. Let us continue to make a difference, one step at a time.
With warmest regards,
Dan Ruscoe
CEO, The Catholic Fellowship Disability Network
67th Annual General Meeting - November 2024
Thank you to everyone who attended this year's 67th Annual General Meeting at St Anne Line Church Hall on Sunday, 3rd November 2024. Your enthusiasm and support mean a lot to our charity. We're excited to embark on an ambitious year ahead, filled with new initiatives, stronger foundations and inclusive events aimed at strengthening our community and enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. Together, we look forward to making a lasting impact and continuing our mission with renewed energy and passion. Below are the 4 key priorities that have been set by the Board for the next 3 years:
Priority 1:
Increase Volunteer and Trustee Recruitment (HR)
To meet growing needs of our charity and open new groups, we aim to double our volunteer base by 2027. By focusing on volunteer recognition, training, and board diversity, we’ll ensure a robust and sustainable workforce ready to support future growth.
Priority 2:
Fundraising and Financial Stability
To secure long-term stability, we will diversify income sources through grants, corporate partnerships, fundraising initiatives and a dedicated fundraising team. This will reduce reliance on ad-hoc donations and create a strong financial foundation for expanded services and compliance.
Priority 3:
Strengthening Community Engagement
We’re expanding our network by partnering with local disability organisations, councils, and schools whilst looking to open new groups. These connections will enhance our outreach, attract younger members, and increase visibility, enabling us to better serve our community across East London and Essex.
Priority 4:
Advocacy and Representation
We’ll continue developing our advocacy program, empowering members with support in workplace transitions and community access. Through our Community Disability Advocate program, we aim to drive positive change locally, giving our members a stronger voice in key forums.