News
Community News – Winter 2026
It may still be cold and wet outside, but Lewisham Mencap has started the year strong, following a brilliant evening at our AGM back in November and just as great a week of Christmas parties, thanks to our volunteers’ work and dedication. Scroll down for upcoming events and workshops, grants and community updates.
AGM 2025
It’s been a long road, but our merger with Bromley Mencap is near. We were delighted to welcome Steve Barnes (CEO) and Jonathan Pownell (Treasurer) to our November AGM ahead of the big event. Our Chair, Isabella Mandley, was invited to attend the Bromley Mencap board meeting for the first time in December, as the process draws to a close.
View our Annual Report below.
End of year celebrations
Before the team’s only two-week break each year, we say goodbye by throwing a serious party for each of the club’s members. As always, we are infinitely grateful for all the energy and love that our volunteers pour into running these events so that all adults with learning disabilities in Lewisham, as well as their families and carers can enjoy a vibrant social life, friendships and connections.
Workshops, yoga and the theatre
The last quarter has seen our members engaging in a number of new activities and experiences: from workshops on
relationships, communication and consent,
dental health and a new monthly yoga class with the lovely
Claire Farmer,
to cultural experiences that have had great impact on our members’ and volunteers’ wellbeing. This year, we are focused on further increasing our community’s access to the arts in our local area and beyond.
Below, some of our members and volunteers before the Christmas panto at the Catford Broadway Theatre and at the O2 for Disney on Ice.
Coming up this quarter
ASAMAA Grant
We are deeply grateful to the ASAMAA Charitable Trust for their generous grant in support of our work. Their contribution will make a real difference by helping us fund free tea and coffee for the support staff at Tuesday Club, as well installing equipment that will make the space even more comfortable during the hot Summer months. Thank you for your kindness and trust and we look forward to sharing further updates once the project is finalised.
Yoga with Claire in 2026
We are thrilled to welcome back Claire Farmer with her easy and relaxing yoga classes at Thursday Club.
Save the dates and join our group to feel more confident and move your body a little more each time.
If you know or support someone with a learning disability, please share this information with them.. 
More walks in the park
Our collaboration with CareDogs is expanding further with two new walks scheduled for March and May on a Monday and Thursday, respectively. We would therefore like to invite all the brilliant support staff and carers to join our walk on Monday, the 16th of March at 4.30pm.
CareDogs
volunteers and dogs will be there to make the experience even better: you can learn how to interact with a dog, walk them on a lead or just play in the fresh air before heading to the club! Call or Whatsapp 07932 002317 to book a spot.
Fun Drama Workshops
Save this timetable and join us for a new series of drama workshops in 2026!
Teatro Vivo’s most recent sock puppet-making session was an absolute hit!
Next workshop: 11th February, 7pm-9pm
Discos and Days Out in 2026
Our programme of days out and discos is now out!
If you or someone you know would like to join us, you can begin by coming to one of our clubs or contacting us directly on 07932 002317.
A list of all the dates is attached.
First Aid Training
In February, we look forward to our First Aid refresher training for volunteers with Hannah Glenton!
Communication and Consent with Turning Point
Ahead of our Valentine’s Day disco, we are welcoming Turning Point with another workshop on Communication and Consent, aimed to better equip us with the language and information on how to lead healthier and happier relationships with those around us. Be ready for an artsy afternoon of valentine making!
St. Christopher’s Hospice visit and creative workshops
It’s great to have the opportunity to further develop partnerships across the borough with more brilliant organisations such as St. Christopher’s. Watch this space!
Local events
Resources for Autism Offer
Resources for Autism run a monthly for autistic adults with low support needs who want a relaxed, informal space to meet others.
They also offer a creative space for Lewisham-based musicians on the first Tuesday of each month from 6.45pm to 8pm at the Fellowship Inn, Rnadlesdown Rd, SE6 3BT.
For more information, email srinaldi@resourcesforautism.org.uk or call 07791 149874.
Lewisham Speaking Up
Our friends at Lewisham Speaking Up have an excellent offer on. From in-person and Zoom group discussions, to music sessions and the People’s Parliament, you can see all of their events
in their latest newsletter.
Community Connections Lewisham
As per their website, the CCL range of handy Factsheets provide up to date information about what services and groups are available across the borough of Lewisham for a particular support need.
This could be anything from Advocacy and IT groups to free Mental Health support and Community Transport schemes!
Digital Support for Seniors
Dream Catchers are running classes for older adults who wish to receive digital support, online safety tips and help with their devices.
These classes take place on Tuesdays, 12.30pm-2.30pm at the Lewisham Community Space.
Phone 07516 016 779 for more information.
Social Activities for Adults with Learning Disabilities in Lewisham
Lewisham Mencap, in collaboration with Michael Stuart and Community Connections Lewisham, are also bringing you a new collection of resources. From dance classes and museum visits to theatre shows, trying new things is guaranteed to uplift your mood and expand your imagination!
Click here to download the PDF document.
We hope you find some of the information above useful. Get in touch with us if you wish to join our mailing list, of if you’d like to share any relevant information with our community.
To stay up to date with our work at Lewisham Mencap, bookmark this link
Special Events Timetable
and get in touch directly if you have any questions!
If you’re keen to take part or volunteer at these events, email info@lewishammencap.org.uk
or ring 07932 02317!
See you soon!
The Lewisham Mencap Team