1950s
Where it all Began: 1951
Today, New Directions is a vibrant, progressive charity, offering a wide range of opportunities that support independent living for the people it serves. However, its success would not have been possible without the determination of a group of parents in 1951, whose children had learning disabilities. At a time when options were limited and often confined to institutional care, they were resolved to create something better.
This determination was shaped by the spirit of post-war Britain, when communities relied heavily on mutual support and self-help. In towns like Rugby, rapidly expanding through industrial growth and rising populations, there was an increasing need for local, voluntary support networks to meet the needs of families.
It all began with a meeting at Northlands School, where parents were encouraged to come together and support one another by sharing the care of their children. In the early days, they gathered at Hamilton House, where Mrs Monck, who would later become President of Mencap and Mayor of Rugby, taught some of the children.
The group later moved to Holbrook Avenue, a small training centre for children with learning disabilities. Fundraising was very much a community effort, with parents organising jumble sales, bazaars and coffee mornings, while also providing transport themselves in the early years. They even ran a stall at the local market, and Christmas cards made by the children became a valued and meaningful source of income.
Following a public meeting in 1954, Rugby Mencap was officially formed.
The Society continued to fundraise with the objective of purchasing respite accommodation for their children.
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