It’s hard to believe we are already half way through January! As we step into 2026, we do so with a mixture of optimism and gratitude, but also with a sense of sadness, as we say goodbye to someone who has been at the very heart of Enable Ability for almost three decades.
At the end of 2025, Richard retired from his role as Charity Manager, bringing to a close an extraordinary chapter in the charity’s history.
Richard mentioned that he always knew he wanted a career where he could make a direct difference to people’s lives. His journey with Enable Ability began after attending a multi-agency meeting of what was then known as the Portsmouth & District Cerebral Palsy Association. That meeting focused on setting up a pilot Playscheme for children with disabilities in Portsmouth- a simple idea that would go on to shape the future of the charity.
That initial conversation led to six weeks of work with Portsmouth City Council over the summer, coordinating a pilot Playscheme that supported just 15 children per day. Within five years, Richard’s position became full-time.
As Richard retires, it is remarkable to look back and see how that small pilot has grown. Today, our Playschemes are one of Enable Ability’s most sought-after services, supporting children and families during the majority of school holidays and forming a cornerstone of our work across the city.
Over the years, Richard played a pivotal role in developing and expanding many of Enable Ability’s projects, helping the charity evolve to meet changing needs while staying true to its values. He also brought that same commitment to fundraising, giving his time, energy, and enthusiasm to countless activities, including personally taking on the Three Peaks Challenge with other colleagues and friends- a true reflection of his dedication to the charity and the people it supports.
Richard spoke about how much he valued working alongside his colleagues, praising the contribution each person makes and recognising that Enable Ability’s impact is built on teamwork, passion, and shared purpose.
We are incredibly grateful to have had Richard as our Charity Manager for so many years. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment have helped shape Enable Ability into the organisation it is today. He has supported staff, championed service users, and ensured the charity continued to grow with integrity and care.
It has certainly been a privilege to work alongside Richard. He will be greatly missed by the whole team, but his legacy will live on through the services he helped build and the lives he has touched.
Thank you, Richard, for everything you have given to Enable Ability and to the people of Portsmouth. We wish you a very happy and well-deserved retirement.
