Stockport charity seeks input into history project to mark 70th anniversary 

Stockport-based charity, Supportability, is seeking stories from those who have experienced the organisation’s work over its 70-year history.

Established in 1953 to support people in Stockport with a wide range of disabilities, Supportability has secured the backing of the National Lottery Heritage Fund to explore their history, which has never been fully documented or researched before.

The project will result in a digitised timeline of photographs, documents and audio recordings, as well as a public exhibition and celebration event in 2025. There will also be themed activities such as heritage walks, music, art and cookery sessions for the people they support and their families and friends.  

The charity is now looking to hear from those who have been supported by the organisation in the past, or their friends and relatives, as well as former workers and volunteers to share their stories. Or perhaps you know the person photographed above.

Commenting on the project, CEO Geraint Hughes said:  

“This is a fantastic opportunity thanks to the generosity of the National Lottery Heritage Fund to ensure we can capture and promote the impact the charity has had over the last 70 years.  

“It is important to us that we don’t lose sight of our beginnings and that we protect the charities rich history to remind us all of the good work and support that has been provided over the years to both those with disabilities and their carers. I hope anyone who has had any connection with the charity whether it be big or small will step forward and help us to showcase its history for this very worthwhile project.”

If you have a story to share, please contact Supportability’s Elli Tozer; no amount of detail is too small.

If you don’t have a story to share, there are other ways to get involved. From sorting through photo slides to assisting the Project Manager with the planning of the exhibition, they have a range of volunteering opportunities available.