A Reception fit for a Lord

Susan & Stephen James kindly sponsored a reception at the House of Lords on a lovely mid-summer's evening, with some 150 guests enjoying their hospitality in the historic surroundings.

The majority of guests enjoyed a guided tour of the Palace of Westminster prior to the reception, which was formally opened by Lord Young of Grantham. Following this Stephen James spoke about the fantastic work that Jewish Blind and Disabled does in being the only charity in the community providing purpose built mobility apartments for people of all ages who are physically disabled or vision impaired. He also reminded the audience of his late parents' connection with the charity, and in particular his mother's wish to be identified with the work of JBD - a wish that was fulfilled with the naming of our newest building, Frances and Dick James Court, in her and her husband's honour.

Stephen then introduced Lorraine Duskwick whose 26 year old son Joel is a tenant in Aztec House. Lorraine spoke movingly about Joel who suffers from severe cerebral palsy. Prior to discovering Jewish Blind and Disabled his family could not envisage him, and by extension them, ever being able to lead independent lives. JBD has now transformed all of them with Joel having the independence that any young man would want, whilst his family can relax safe in the knowledge that help is always on hand, if required, from our house managers who are on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

As a direct result of her poignant words, we raised over £100,000 to enable us to continue, literally, giving the key to independence to all those in our community who need our services.

Please visit our gallery for photos from the evening.

Jewish Blind & Disabled would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors Susan & Stephen James and all those who supported the event.