Lisieux Trust marks 40 years of community and support

The Lisieux Trust marked 40 years of celebrations with a special anniversary bringing together the people who have helped shape the charity’s journey.

The event held at Aston Wood Golf Club, brought together more than 150 residents, tenants, families, supporters, trustees, former staff and friends.

People from every stage of the charity’s history came together to reflect on four decades of supporting people with learning disabilities to live fulfilling, independent and meaningful lives.

Founded in 1985, Lisieux Trust grew from its beginnings at Lisieux House, where Jo Cross and her late husband opened their home and shared their lives with a community of people with learning difficulties.

The charity began as a small family-based community and has developed into a well-established charity supporting people across the West Midlands while remaining rooted in its founding values of dignity, belonging and compassion.

The celebration included a series of special awards recognising individuals whose commitment has helped shape the organisation over the past 40 years.

Wanda was honoured as the Trust's founding resident, recognising her unique place in the charity's history.

Jo received an award for her role as founding house mother and for helping establish the welcoming community that became the foundation of the Trust.

Former chair Kevin Nagle received an Outstanding Contribution Award for his leadership and service, while Pauline Lucas was recognised for her contribution as a founding trustee.

Reflecting on the milestone, chair of trustees Paul Eeles said: "Marking the 40th anniversary of Lisieux Trust was a deeply meaningful moment for me.

“I felt enormous pride in what has been achieved over four decades, and huge gratitude to the people who made it possible.

"The Trust began with Jo and her late husband John, and their family, who shared Lisieux House and shared their lives with a community of people with learning difficulties.

“Their generosity, courage and belief created something truly unique, placing dignity, belonging and compassion at its heart.

"But Lisieux Trust was never built by one family alone. Our founding trustees played an equally vital role in turning that vision into a sustainable, long-term organisation.

“Their commitment and determination ensured that what began in a family home could grow into a charity that has supported people for 40 years.

"Having been connected to Lisieux Trust myself for almost 40 years, I've seen its evolution first-hand.

“Celebrating this milestone with so many people felt incredibly special. It allowed us to honour our past, thank those who built it, and look ahead with real confidence to the future we're creating together."

Pictured from left to right: Paul Eeles and Dr Emma Hodges