In 1993, eleven families came together to establish the first club in the Kingston-Upon-Thames area for young, able-bodied adults with mild learning disabilities. The club is an entirely voluntary organisation, supported by fundraising, donataions and grants.
R.O.Y.A.D. became a registered charity in 1997 and is regulated by the Charity Commission. It is managed by a Board of Trustees, who are accountable to members through an Annual General Meeting.
Over the past 30 years, the club has evolved as members have grown older and new members have joined. However, it has remained true to its original purpose: enhancing the lives of members by supporting the development of social, physical and personal skills, helping them achieve their full potential and independence.
R.O.Y.A.D. members have opportunities to make new friends and develop awareness and appreciation of others through a variety of group activities. Members also have a formal voice through the Members' Forum, which helps shape how the club is run.
R.O.Y.A.D. currently has around 35 active members and is always ready to welcome new people who would benefit from membership and are keen to participate in R.O.Y.A.D.'s activities. While the club mainly serves those living in Kingston-Upon-Thames and surrounding boroughs, this is flexible - particularly where existing members move away but remain involved.
Potential members connect with the R.O.Y.A.D. in a variety of ways. Some get in touch with the club directly, while others are introduced through parents, carers, friends, statutory bodies or voluntary organisations. Please contact us to find out more.
At R.O.Y.A.D. everyone contributes. Where appropriate, we encourage parents, family members and carers to volunteer some of their time to help run the club and support its activities.