Story by Hallie Banish

Teddington-based charity, Ruils Independent Living, has marked 20 years of service having grown into a movement championing change and equality for disabled people in and around the borough.

The organisation kicked off its 20th year with a celebration at York House last Thursday with founding members, staff team, volunteers, trustees, councillors, statutory and voluntary sector partners, supporters and many more.

The event was attended by Her Worship the Mayor of Richmond, Councillor Julia Cambridge, who helped celebrate Jamal Mohamad, a founding member, for his part in setting up Ruils and his years of dedication. And Her Worship the Mayor of Richmond, was thanked for her incredible support over the last year and for choosing Ruils as her Mayor's charity.

The evening was marked with a series of stunning performances from clients and local groups, including the Ruils choir, led by Antonia Halse, Ruils theatre group, led by Trustee Bryony Meteyard, and client Avni, 18, who gave a mesmerising performance on the piano.

In addition to performances, it was a night spent recognising key people who have supported Ruils over the last 20 years. Fundraiser and former England rugby player Sue Dorrington was recognised for raising an incredible £115,000 for Ruils in just 6 years and BNI Tudor Chapter, based in Twickenham, was recognised for their long and continued support of Ruils' work.

From skydives and marathons to being trusted recommendations to clients, they have been an invaluable resource. Cathy Kerr was honoured for helping to strengthen the relationship between Ruils and Richmond Council.

Even though she wasn't able to attend, Richmond resident Patty Lloyd was recognised for her 10+ years of volunteer service, doing anything and everything to support Ruils. Patty was recently given honourable mention for her volunteer service in Richmond at the Community Heroes Awards.

The evening was ended by recognising CEO, Cathy Maker, who has led Ruils for 19 years and is carrying on the legacy of founding member, Richard Kember.

Ovation for CEO, Cathy Maker, and her 19 years of service and leadership

"We often talk about our Ruilsiness. And it's hard to say what Ruilsiness is – it's a feeling, it's a collective, it's a family. I want to acknowledge each and every one of you. Because this really is a team effort. Ruils is a collection of us all working towards a better, more inclusive, world. We look forward to more celebration throughout our 20th year!"

Ruils is a user-led charity supporting disabled children and adults and people with long term health & mental health conditions to live independently, be part of their community and to live life to the full. They provide information, advice, advocacy, befriending and activities to our clients and their families. For more information about their work, click here.