Mental Health Awareness Day offers an opportunity to pause, listen and consider what still needs to change. For Mark, a mental health advocate and lived-experience Oliver McGowan trainer (pictured here with an award he received for his work with the NHS), that process must begin with the voices of people who know first-hand why understanding and effective support matter.

Mark said that people’s experiences of mental health need to be heard and taken seriously. He spoke about listening as an important part of building better support and stronger communities.
“It’s important for mental health to be listened to.”
Mark
Through his work as an Oliver McGowan trainer, Mark has seen how education can influence attitudes towards mental health, autism and learning disability. He discussed the importance of involving people with lived experience in training and helping others understand how to communicate effectively and offer meaningful support.
“It’s important to achieve a lot more education about mental health as well.”
Mark
Mark also follows politics closely because decisions made nationally and locally directly affect the support people receive. He wants councillors, MPs and government to place mental health firmly on the agenda by listening to lived experience, protecting community services, improving access to support and giving mental health greater priority in policy.
 
Mark spoke about the difference between political promises and action. He believes politicians, services and communities all have responsibilities. Schools, workplaces, health services and community organisations can create opportunities for people to talk and learn, while individuals can take the time to ask someone how they are and genuinely listen to the answer.
 
His message is that awareness should not be limited to a single day. He wants people to keep listening, learning and asking decision-makers what they are doing. Mark believes communities, services and politicians need to work together and pay attention to lived experience if meaningful progress is to be made.
 

Residents and tenants from across the Trust at Head Office on Sunday afternoon for a Good Lives Framework workshop organised by Alison O’Meara, Head of Operations, and Rosa, a tenant. The session gave them a chance to share what matters to them and what they hope for in the future.

Good Lives is a project led by Learning Disability England, shaped by people with learning disabilities, their families and supporters. Its Good Lives Framework sets out what people say they need to live well and brings together ideas for change across areas such as home, relationships, health and the right support.

The workshop was designed to give people an opportunity to explore what living a good life means to them and to share their ideas, ambitions and priorities for the future. Based on the principles of the Good Lives Framework, the session encouraged open discussion about rights, choice, independence and working together to create positive change.

The event focused on some of the themes that matter most to people, including:

Throughout the afternoon, participants shared their experiences and talked about what is important in their lives. Conversations highlighted the value of having meaningful relationships, pursuing personal goals, being active in the community and having the opportunity to make choices about everyday life.

A particular highlight of the workshop was the involvement of Rosa as co-organiser, Rosa has been involved in workshops for a couple of years, people should be actively involved in the decisions and discussions that affect their lives. The workshop created a welcoming space where everyone’s views were valued and listened to.

Alison explained that the purpose of the session was not simply to talk about what we already do but to focus on what helps people flourish, achieve their aspirations and live the lives they choose. This approach mirrors the Good Lives Framework’s emphasis on human rights, person-centred support and community inclusion.

The workshop also reinforced the importance of partnership. By bringing together people we support and staff, the session encouraged meaningful conversations about how we can continue improving support, increasing opportunities and ensuring that people’s voices remain at the centre of everything we do. We already work closely with the Care Quality Commission and have assisted them on a number of projects.

At Lisieux Trust, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life, make their own choices and pursue their dreams. Events such as this Good Lives Workshop help us turn those values into action.

Together, we continue to build positive change and create opportunities for people to live the lives they choose.

We are delighted to share that the latest edition of the Lisieux Trust Newsletter is now available to read online. This special September edition celebrates a major milestone in our history as we look back on our 40th anniversary celebrations and the people who have helped shape the Trust over four decades.

Inside this issue, you can read about our fantastic anniversary celebration attended by residents, tenants, families, supporters, trustees, former staff and friends. We also feature reflections from long-serving trustee PaulineLucas, who shares why supporting the Trust has been “the privilege of my life”.
 
The newsletter also includes coverage of our appearance on BBC WM, where Chair PaulEeles and tenant Nick spoke about the impact of the Trust and our 40-year journey. There is also a fascinating story about visitors from Japan who came to learn more about our work, build cultural connections and share learning around compassionate communities.

As always, there are plenty of updates from across the Trust, including resident and tenant stories, trips and activities, award celebrations, birthdays, recruitment news, fundraising updates and photographs capturing life around our services. You’ll also find details of our new 40 for 40 Appeal, helping us continue supporting people with a learning disability and autistic adults to live happy, enriched lives full of opportunity and choice.
 
Paper copies of the newsletter will be available and distributed next week. In the meantime, you can read the full September edition online at:
https://lisieuxtrust.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/september-2026-newsletter.pdf
 
Thank you to everyone who contributed stories, photographs and updates to this month’s edition. We hope you enjoy reading it and celebrating this special milestone with us.

When Pauline Lucas first stepped inside what would become Lisieux House, it was difficult to imagine the thriving organisation that would grow from it.

“The house was in a terrible state,” she recalls with a smile. “It had been a doctor’s surgery and had fallen into disrepair. We were actually climbing through the windows to look around it.”
But what Pauline and the other founding Trustees saw was potential. Together with the Cross family, they helped transform that derelict building into a home where people with learning disabilities could live with dignity, independence and friendship.

More than four decades later, she remains one of the Trust’s longest-serving supporters and has watched it grow from seven residents in one house to the vibrant community it is today.
“There were seven of us as Trustees in those early days,” she says. “We were all friends of the Cross family. We held meetings, wrote letters, fought for funding and simply did whatever needed doing.”

As well as serving as a Trustee, Pauline was a primary school headteacher for 30 years, balancing her professional life with her commitment to the Trust.

Looking back, it is the people themselves who stand out most.

“It’s been a privilege to have worked with all our residents,” she says. “I’ve seen people become more confident, more independent and much more involved in their communities.”

One of her fondest memories is of the canal boat holidays enjoyed by residents and volunteers alike.

“The Residents absolutely loved them,” she remembers. “We travelled at a gentle pace, cooked together and enjoyed being together. They were wonderful holidays and created some fantastic memories.”

For Pauline, one of the charity’s greatest achievements has been helping people become visible and valued members of their local communities.

“Forty years ago many people were overlooked. Today our Residents are recognised wherever they go. They’re involved in local life and people know them. That’s something very special.”

Asked what makes her most proud, her answer comes quickly.

“I’m proud of our Residents, and I’m proud of our staff. The care they provide is excellent. People are involved in decisions about their own lives and are encouraged to be themselves.”
Despite the charity’s growth, she believes one thing has never changed.“The Residents are still at the heart of everything we do.”

As the Trust celebrates its 40th anniversary, Pauline hopes its future remains rooted in the same values that shaped its beginnings.

“I’d like to see us provide homes for more people who need them,” she says. “But without ever losing what makes us special. Every house feels like a home, every person matters, and that’s what the Trust has always been about.”

For someone who has been part of the journey from the very beginning, perhaps her final reflection says it best: “It’s been a great honour and a privilege. To see how people have grown, flourished and become part of their communities has been one of the greatest rewards of my life.”

As the Lisieux Trust celebrates 40 years of supporting people with learning disabilities to live full and meaningful lives, it is fitting to look back at the vision that started it all.
For founder Jo Trodden (who was Cross at the time), the inspiration was not a grand strategy or a business plan. It was a simple but powerful question asked by countless families:
“What will happen to my child when I am no longer able to care for them?”

That question became the foundation stone of the trust.

Speaking ahead of the anniversary celebrations, Jo recalls a very different world in the early 1980s. Attitudes towards disability were changing, but opportunities for people with learning disabilities to live independently in the community remained extremely limited.

“I was working at Ebrook Day Centre and St Thomas’ Adult Training Centre,” she explains. “Parents were frightened about the future. They knew they wouldn’t always be there, but there were very few alternatives. They wanted somewhere their sons and daughters could belong, somewhere safe, somewhere they could live an ordinary life.” support as they need to make choices for themselves.

At the same time, the Government was beginning its move away from large institutions towards what became known as ‘Care in the Community’.
“People often think our work was about hospital resettlement,” says Jo. “It wasn’t. The people we supported were already living in the community. The issue was what would happen when parents became older or were no longer able to provide that care.”

The idea that emerged was both radical and remarkably simple.

Jo and John Cross and their family, having overcome many difficulties , acquired a derelict house and after much support from professional people the building was carefully adapted for use and registration was gained – and that house became a home.

When Lisieux House opened in August 1986, there were no staff rooms, no separate staff facilities and no rigid systems. It was designed to feel like a real home because it was one.
“We were just living as a family,” she remembers. “People weren’t treated as a group. They were individuals. We called people by their names. We found out what they enjoyed, what they were good at, and helped them build on that.”

That philosophy remains at the heart of the Trust today.

One of Jo’s favourite memories captures that spirit perfectly. She remembers a resident named Billy, who arrived having had very few opportunities to develop independence because his mother had done everything for him.

Everybody in the house had a role. People helped with preparing meals, household tasks and daily routines.
“It was the ordinariness of it,” she says. “That’s what mattered.

“People boiled kettles for the first time, went swimming for the first time, went to the cinema for the first time. Everybody had gifts. Everybody had something to contribute.”
For Jo, independence was never about doing everything alone. It was about having the confidence and freedom to make choices and participate fully in everyday life.
Looking back, she believes the biggest achievement of the Trust has been helping people flourish.

“I would say the ethos is what I’m most proud of. People have blossomed. They have been allowed to be themselves.”

The name Lisieux itself carries special significance. It comes from Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, known for what she called “The Little Way”, the belief that small acts of kindness and love can achieve extraordinary things.

“It was never about doing something grand,” says Jo. “We do everything in a very little way. Just simple things, done with care.”

That commitment to relationships extended beyond the people living in the houses. Volunteers, families, neighbours and local communities all became part of the story. Over the years, countless people have given their time, friendships and energy to support the Trust’s work.

When asked whether she imagined the organisation growing into what it is today, with multiple homes, services and a large staff team, she laughs.

“No, I didn’t imagine it would become this. But I always hoped more communities would take the same approach. The need has never gone away.”

What matters most to her is not the size of the organisation but the preservation of its values.

“I think care works best when it is personal and local,” she says. “People need community. They need relationships. They need to feel that they belong.”

Forty years after a small group of families dared to imagine a different future, the question that inspired the Trust still matters. But thanks to the vision, determination and compassion of people like Jo, thousands of families have found reassurance in knowing there is an answer.

And as the trust looks towards the future, perhaps its greatest achievement is this: generation after generation of people have been empowered to live lives defined not by limitations, but by opportunity, belonging and friendship.

“We answered a need,” says Jo. “That’s what I’m proud of. We answered a need, and we helped people be themselves.”

 

More than 150 residents, tenants, families, supporters, trustees, former staff and friends of Lisieux Trust gathered at Aston Wood Golf Club to celebrate a remarkable milestone as the charity marked its 40th anniversary.

The special celebration brought together people from every chapter of the Trust’s history, creating an opportunity to reflect on four decades of supporting people with learning disabilities to live fulfilling, independent and meaningful lives.

Founded in 1986, Lisieux Trust grew from humble beginnings at Lisieux House, where Jo and her late husband, John and their family opened their home and shared their lives with a community of people with learning difficulties. What began as a vision rooted in dignity, belonging and compassion has grown into a thriving charity that continues to support people across the West Midlands today.

The afternoon celebrated not only the Trust’s achievements but also the individuals whose dedication, leadership and commitment have helped shape its journey over the last 40 years.

A number of special awards were presented during the event to recognise those who have played a significant role in the charity’s history. Wanda was honoured as the Trust’s founding resident, recognising her unique place at the heart of the Lisieux story and her enduring connection to the organisation since its earliest days.

Jo received a special award in recognition of her role as the Trust’s founding house mother and for helping create a home and community that would go on to transform countless lives. Former Chair Kevin Nagle was presented with an Outstanding Contribution Award for his years of leadership, commitment and service to the Trust, while Pauline Lucas received recognition as a founding trustee whose dedication helped establish the strong foundations that continue to guide the organisation today.

Reflecting on the milestone, Chair of Trustees Paul Eeles (pictured with Jo above) said:  “Marking the 40th anniversary of Lisieux Trust was a deeply meaningful moment for me. I felt enormous pride in what has been achieved over four decades, and huge gratitude to the people who made it possible.

“The Trust began with Jo and her late husband John, and their family, who shared Lisieux House and shared their lives with a community of people with learning difficulties. Their generosity, courage and belief created something truly unique, a way of living that placed dignity, belonging and compassion at its heart.

“But Lisieux Trust was never built by one family alone. Our founding trustees played an equally vital role in turning that vision into a sustainable, long-term organisation. Their commitment, governance and determination ensured that what began in a family home could grow into a charity that has supported people for 40 years. They are as central to our story as Jo and John, and their contribution deserves to be recognised with the same respect and gratitude.
 

“It was also wonderful to honour people who have shaped our journey across the decades, including Wanda, who has been with us from the very beginning, and trustees such as Pauline Lucas and former Chair Kevin Nagle, whose leadership helped build the strong, resilient Trust we are today.

“Having been connected to Lisieux Trust myself for almost 40 years, I’ve seen its evolution first-hand, the challenges, the growth, and the unwavering commitment to supporting people to live fulfilling, independent lives. Celebrating this milestone with so many people felt incredibly special. It allowed us to honour our past, thank those who built it, and look ahead with real confidence to the future we’re creating together.”
 

While the day provided an opportunity to celebrate the past, it also looked firmly towards the future. Guests reflected on how the Trust continues to evolve to meet the aspirations of people it supports, providing opportunities for greater independence, choice, inclusion and community involvement.

As Lisieux Trust enters its fifth decade, it remains committed to building on the values that inspired its beginnings. The organisation will continue to champion the rights, ambitions and potential of people with learning disabilities, ensuring they have the support and opportunities needed to live the lives they choose.

The celebrations at Aston Wood Golf Club served as both a tribute to the people who built Lisieux Trust and a reminder of the strength of the community that continues to drive it forward. Forty years on from its beginnings, the Trust remains proud of its history, grateful to those who have shaped it, and excited about the future that lies ahead.
 

This year marks a very special milestone for Lisieux Trust as we celebrate our 40th anniversary.

For four decades, we have supported people with learning disabilities and autistic adults to live happy, enriched lives, build relationships, develop greater independence and, above all, have a place to belong.

And as we celebrate everything that has happened since 1986, we’re also looking ahead.

That’s why we’re launching our 40 for 40 appeal.

We’re inviting everyone to mark our anniversary by making a one off donation.

For those who can, £40 to mark our 40 years is a simple way to celebrate everything Lisieux Trust has achieved — and help us continue our work for years to come.

40 years. £40. One community.

Lisieux Trust has always been about much more than providing somewhere to live.

It’s about more than a home. It’s about connection, confidence, independence and opportunity; fostering friendships, creating lasting memories, and celebrating the everyday moments that give life meaning.

It is about Living Together. Learning Together. Laughing Together.

We know £40 won’t be possible for everyone, and that’s absolutely fine.

You might give £4, £40, £400 or £4,000.

There is no minimum and no maximum. Every donation matters and every supporter becomes part of our anniversary story.

Forty years ago, the Lisieux Trust story began.

Help us make sure the next chapter is every bit as special

https://www.gofundme.com/f/40-for-40-fzaxq

The Lisieux Trust recently welcomed visitors from Japan as part of an ongoing collaboration exploring how communities can support people through life’s challenges, loss and change.

Keiko Chida (right on main picture), from the End-of-Life Care Association in Japan, and social welfare student Yuuka (left) visited the charity to learn more about its work supporting adults with a learning disability and autistic adults to live happy, enriched lives, full of opportunity and choice.

During their visit, they led an origami session with tenants and visited several Lisieux Trust homes.

The visit builds on a relationship that began in 2023 when Emma Hodges, Chief Executive Officer of Lisieux Trust, travelled to Japan as part of the Compassionate Communities Japan programme.

Reflecting on that experience, Emma Hodges said: “I met Keiko in Japan in 2023 when I was lucky enough to visit as part of a Compassionate Communities Japan programme. A compassionate community is one where people support each other, particularly during life’s more difficult times. The very best support comes from the love, laughter and friendship we share with others.”

During her visit to Japan, Emma learned about Lessons of Life, a programme developed by Keiko to help people understand emotions during difficult times and support one another more effectively.

Emma said: “Keiko talked about a programme she runs in Japan called Lessons of Life which is brilliant at helping people understand their feelings when times are tough. It shows us that we do not have to be sad alone, that we always have a purpose, and that we can support other people too.”

The two remained in contact and, following a further visit from Keiko in 2025, Lessons of Life can now be delivered in the UK.

“Keiko and I stayed in touch and, in 2025, she visited again to teach us more about Lessons of Life,” said Emma. “With the help of others, we can now offer the programme in the UK.”

During her visit to Lisieux Trust, Keiko was impressed by the culture of mutual support she observed.

“Support is not in a place, but in the relationship,” she said in a social media post reflecting on the trip. “I felt again that independence does not mean being able to do everything alone. It means being able to live as yourself, with the support you need.”

Keiko also noted how support flowed naturally between people. “Someone becomes a source of support for someone else. A person who receives support in one moment may become a source of support for another person in the next.”

The origami session proved a particular highlight for tenant Rosa, who said: “We went to the office and made a dog and a heart. I handed out the greeting cards that I made in my session and they were really nice.”

Speaking about the visit, Emma said she was delighted to welcome Keiko and Yuuka to the charity.

“As I am now working at Lisieux Trust, I was really pleased to be able to share what the charity is all about,” she said.

 

There is plenty to celebrate, reflect on and enjoy in the August edition of the Lisieux Trust newsletter. From inspiring achievements and exciting updates to everyday moments that show the power of opportunity, friendship and community, this month’s issue is packed with stories from across the Trust.

Inside, you’ll find the announcement that Dr Emma Hodges has been appointed as the Trust’s permanent Chief Executive, alongside tributes to Janet, whose warmth and spirit touched so many lives over the years. 

The newsletter also celebrates the fantastic success of Jack and Nick, who won awards in a major Midlands gardening competition, and shares how staff at one of our services have been learning Makaton to further strengthen person-centred support. There are stories of achievements, holidays, hobbies, sporting success, community involvement and much more from the people we support and the staff who work alongside them every day.

As always, our regular features offer a glimpse into life around the Trust, showcasing real stories, real choices and the experiences that make Lisieux Trust such a special community. Whether it’s creative projects, fundraising ideas, days out, concerts, volunteering or gardening, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

If you receive a printed copy of the newsletter, it will be with you soon. In the meantime, you can read the full August newsletter online by clicking the link:

Happy reading!

Residents and tenants came together for an evening of creativity, kindness and conversation as Rosa hosted her latest craft workshop at Lisieux Trust Head Office.

The session saw people making welcome cards for a special project involving Chief Executive Emma.

It was the latest in a growing series of events led by Rosa, who has previously helped bring people together through quizzes, bingo, Christmas card making and other creative activities.

Reflecting on the evening, Rosa said: “A lot of people came and I was giving them drinks and I think it all went well because they were all happy and jolly. [Head of Operations] Alison helped me, but she left me to a lot of it.”

As well as helping with refreshments and tidying up as the session went along, Rosa joined in with the creative work herself. “They were making welcome cards,” she said, adding that people also “made bracelets and crafts” and “did some colouring”. Rosa herself made a sympathy card for the residents in the house, where they are coming to terms with a tragic loss.

For Rosa, the value of the evening went beyond the cards themselves. She said the activities help “with their well-being and my own mental health” and added that being together in a relaxed, creative space is “good for their mental health” because people are happy.

That sense of joy was what stood out most to Rosa. Asked what her favourite thing about the evening was, she said simply: “I enjoyed it. I made everybody happy. And myself.”

Rosa is already thinking about what might come next. “I’ll have to think of something else,” she said — and, if her past activities are anything to go by, there will be plenty more chances for people to come together, get creative and have fun.