Ealing Mencap has raised £8,000 at a gala dinner event marking its 60th anniversary with the supporting the charity’s work with people with learning disabilities and additional needs and their families across Ealing.
Held at Trailfinders Rugby Club in West Ealing earlier this month (9 October 2026), the event brought together members, families and supporters. Guests included Central Ealing & Acton MP Dr Rupa Huq, North Ealing MP James Murray, Mayor of Ealing Councillor Faduma Mohamed and Richard Kornicki CBE DL, the deputy lieutenant of Ealing.
The charity, which was founded by local parents and carers in 1965, said over the last year, its Ealing Advice Service supported 6,595 residents while its employment and independence programmes have helped young people and adults move towards paid work, volunteering and independent travel.
Looking to the future, the charity said it will be creating more opportunities around employment, independence, self-advocacy and community inclusion.
Marcus, an Ealing Mencap member, said he felt anxious when he arrived, but a staff member helped him feel less nervous. He said: “I enjoyed the dancing, the wine and the music the most.”
Crystal, who uses the charity’s Dare to Dream employment service, said she enjoyed “seeing the other members who came and all of the staff”.
Rory Hegarty, chair of trustees, said the gala reminded him “what a privilege it is to chair Ealing Mencap”.
Chief executive Nik Demetriades added that the charity’s work had changed over the years, but its purpose remained the same. He said: “Our 60th anniversary is a moment to celebrate the parents, carers, members, staff, volunteers, trustees, supporters and partners who have built Ealing Mencap into the charity it is today.
“Our work has changed over the years, but our purpose remains the same: to help create a more inclusive world where people with a learning disability and additional needs can live independently, be heard and feel they belong.”
