Our earliest founders, John Groom and Lord Shaftesbury, were pioneers of social change in the 19th century. We are inspired by their story to deliver relevant and impactful services meeting today’s need.
Formerly known as Livability, we renamed as Shaftesbury in 2024 to reflect our rich heritage and connection to the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, one of history’s most significant agents for social change.
Lord Shaftesbury pushed through 19th century legislation to make life fairer and safer for tens of thousands of vulnerable children and adults.
In 1844, he became president of the Ragged School Union, a body which offered free education and support to destitute children. The Union was built on practical Christian faith and this remains foundational to our work today.
Over the decades, the Union retained its focus on children and adults who were disabled or disadvantaged. The organisation was renamed The Shaftesbury Society in 1944, merging with John Grooms in 2007 and Prospects in 2016.
The Shaftesbury family continues to actively support our work: Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, the 12th Earl of Shaftesbury, is our current Vice-Patron.
Our heritage
Shaftesbury is building on over 180 years of ground-breaking care and community work. We remain, like our founders, committed to enabling people with disabilities to live the life they want to lead.
We are proud of a heritage in which:
- We pioneered free school education and sheltered workshops, which were among the first of their kind in the 1800s.
- The charity broke new ground by taking young people with disabilities out of hospital wards and into schools.
- We supported people with disabilities in our schools and colleges, improving vocational opportunities for many.
- The charity now works with one in every three local authorities, helping them meet the challenges of a changing social care sector
Leading the way
We are motivated by a dynamic and inclusive Christian ethos, with a clear commitment to disability care and social inclusion.
With the benefit of our rich history and experience, we continue to lead with our vision to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and create a life that adds up for them.