The inspiring story of Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity

Founded in 1955, Diverse Abilities has been a lifeline for children and adults with profound physical and learning disabilities across Dorset for nearly seven decades.

But how did this remarkable journey begin? It all started with one courageous mother named Phyllis. Her daughter Marilyn was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, and in a time when support systems were few and far between, Phyllis took matters into her own hands. She penned a heartfelt letter to the Bournemouth Echo, seeking to connect with other parents in similar situations. That letter sparked a movement, and soon nine families came together to form the foundation of what is now Dorset’s leading disability charity.

“We’re the only organisation in the county supporting both children and adults with physical and learning disabilities, and providing support for the families too,” shares a representative from Diverse Abilities. Today, the charity supports more than 1,000 individuals annually, making a profound impact on countless lives through an ever-expanding array of services.

‘Early intervention is key’

Diverse Abilities is not just a charity—it’s a community that provides holistic, lifelong care. From early intervention for children undergoing diagnosis to helping adults build independence, every service is designed to help individuals reach their full potential.

The charity’s Children’s Team works closely with families from the very beginning, even before a diagnosis is confirmed. “Early intervention is so important when it comes to enabling people to live full and independent lives,” explains the team. Each child is provided with a personalised care plan, focusing on their unique needs and strengths.

For adults, the charity offers a range of services aimed at fostering independence and integration into the community. Whether it’s learning to navigate public transport, engaging in social activities, or developing skills, Diverse Abilities ensures that every person they support is able to live a fulfilling life. For families transitioning from children’s services to adult social care, the charity offers a seamless handover process to ease the burden. “Many of our parents describe the overnight change from Children’s Services to Adults Social Care as a cliff-edge because everything starts from scratch, so we aim to make that as seamless as possible for everyone,” says a spokesperson.

Additionally, the charity’s Advice Team provides vital support beyond Dorset. They work with families across the country to ensure they’re receiving the financial assistance they deserve. In fact, last year, they were successful in 95% of their tribunal cases. “Our team helps people fight their corner,” they proudly share. The charity also provides a Lasting Power of Attorney service, helping families take crucial legal steps to protect their loved ones’ futures.

‘Providing sustainable support and education for as long as families need them’

At the heart of Diverse Abilities is a set of values that guide everything they do. Their mission is simple: “to enable children and adults with disabilities to achieve their full potential by providing a lifetime of sustainable support and educational services.” The charity is committed to providing sustainable support and education for as long as families need them, advocating tirelessly on behalf of the people they serve.

One of the cornerstones of their work is their commitment to person-centered care. “We allow everyone we support to lead their day, make their own decisions, and live their lives as independently as possible,” shares the team. Staff members are trained extensively, ensuring they understand the importance of respecting the individuality and independence of each person in their care. It’s this dedication to person-centered care that allows the charity to create truly meaningful, lifelong connections with the people they serve.

‘We face so many challenges in raising the amount we need each year’

Running a charity of this magnitude doesn’t come without its challenges—particularly when it comes to raising funds. It costs nearly £25,000 a day to keep Diverse Abilities operational, and the charity’s fundraising team works relentlessly to ensure every pound raised is used efficiently. “We face so many challenges in raising the amount we need each year, whether it’s misconceptions in how we operate or the sheer competitive nature of the charity sector,” they acknowledge.

For instance, while the charity runs a specialist school, government funding only covers the basics. “We fundraise on top of this to provide the specialist wheelchairs and equipment, alongside raising money for the specialist teams on site like nurses, physiotherapists, and speech therapists,” the charity explains. This additional funding ensures that children can receive the care they need in one place, rather than being shuttled to appointments across the county.

‘Whether it’s someone achieving their target of walking five metres unaided, catching the bus into town, or even facing their fears and going to the dentist, we get to hear these stories and share them with everyone who’s supported us’

Behind the numbers are stories of real people whose lives have been transformed by Diverse Abilities. “Whether it’s someone achieving their target of walking five metres unaided, catching the bus into town, or even facing their fears and going to the dentist, we get to hear these stories and share them with everyone who’s supported us,” says a representative.

Through their podcast, Reasons to Care, Diverse Abilities is shining a light on these inspiring stories while also highlighting how rewarding a career in care can be. “It’s so often put to the side in schools when discussing future career paths, but we’re here to show just how fulfilling it is,” they add.

‘We’ve got lots up our sleeves to celebrate’

As Diverse Abilities approaches its 70th anniversary in 2025, the charity is already looking ahead. “We’ve got lots up our sleeves to celebrate, but as well as looking back on where we’ve come from, we’ll be looking forward to the next 70 (at least!) and all the things we’re yet to achieve,” the team reveals. The charity’s vision for the future is clear: continue growing, expanding services, and improving the lives of the people they support.

The local community plays a crucial role in this vision. “The community can support us by getting involved—whether it’s through attending an event, hosting their own fundraiser, volunteering, or even considering a career with us,” they say. And with their website, diverseabilities.org.uk, offering all the information needed to take the next step, everyone has the chance to make a difference.

Through a combination of compassion, innovation, and community support, Diverse Abilities continues to carry forward the ethos of its founder, Phyllis. As they work to make every day better for those with disabilities, they inspire everyone around them to do the same.

Picture credit: Diverse Abilities