Lifeways celebrates a summer full of 30 Wishes

A Christmas castle trip, a day out in London, a special experience with family and a chicken coop have been granted as the next batch of wishes in Lifeways’ 30 Wishes campaign for 2026.  

The initiative, which launched as part of our 30th anniversary celebrations in 2025, is continuing this year and has already helped many of the people we support achieve long-held dreams, or a nice little treat that they would struggle to achieve without financial support.    

Read on to find out more about the four nominations that were selected. 

A day out in London 

Louise, one of the people we support at our Salem Lane mental health service, was nominated for a trip to London by Support Worker Paul Richardson. 

She has been a resident at Salem Lane for six years, and is now getting ready to live independently in the community for the first time. It has been a long journey for Louise, who has spent all her adult life in mental health hospitals and supported accommodation.  

Sadly in 2024 Louise's mother passed away unexpectedly, and her father was also diagnosed with cancer shortly after. Team members very concerned how Louise would cope, but she has done incredibly well, staying focused on her recovery and the next chapter in her life living independently. 

During her trip to London Louise visited Disney Pixar, The Disney Store and some high-end fashion shops, and the highlight was seeing a West End show.  She also enjoyed a stay in a fancy hotel. 

Commenting on Louise’s wish, Paul said: “She wanted me to thank Lifeways and 30 Wishes for giving her such an amazing experience, which she says she will never forget.” 

Christmas at Highclere Castle 

Christmas-lover Kathleen from The Bungalow was nominated by Deputy Manager Claudia Sion to enjoy a Christmas experience at Highclere Castle, including a tour and afternoon tea.  

Claudia said that it was a long‑held dream for Kathleen, connected to her passion for writing and love of Christmas, and it would inspire her work and bring personal joy. 

When Kathleen was told that her wish had been granted, the team said she was absolutely beaming.  

Kathleen said: "I feel very happy and excited. Christmas is my favourite time of year, so this is very special for me. I can’t wait to go to the castle when it’s all decorated, have a lovely afternoon tea, and maybe a mince pie or two... Maybe I will meet the Countess of Carnarvon, who knows? I feel very lucky." 

Claudia added: "I’m incredibly proud that Kathleen has been chosen as a winner. She absolutely loves Christmas, so this experience is perfect for her and means so much. Seeing how happy and excited she is makes it very special for all of us. Opportunities like this truly make a difference, and we are so grateful to be part of it." 

"She brings so much positivity, and it’s wonderful to see her recognised in this way. The whole team is so happy for her and excited to support her in enjoying this very special experience." 

Making memories with family 

Grace Keegan, Registered Manager at Kimbolton residential service, nominated Blaise for a special experience of his choosing with his family.  

Blaise contributes to life at Kimbolton as a Quality Checker, an expert by experience that helps monitor the quality of support delivered in this home and others. Blaise also enjoys helping to keep his home clean and tidy and generally helping out around the home. Grace said granting a wish would recognise his efforts and boost his motivation.   

Blaise said: “I would like to thank Lifeways for selecting me as part of the 30 Wishes campaign. I would also like to thank Grace and the staff for helping to build my confidence, supporting me as I learned new skills, and encouraging me to interact more with other people. 

“Thank you again for recognising my achievement.” 

Grace added: “I’m absolutely delighted that Blaise has been selected as a 30 Wishes winner – it’s such a fantastic opportunity, and very well deserved.” 

A new chicken coop for Fir Tree Court 

Lisa Harvey, Service Manager at Fir Tree Court, has had her wish granted for a new chicken coop at the supported living service, which she said would support mental wellbeing, responsibility, social interaction, and also provide fresh food for the people Lifeways supports. 

After she shared the good news, residents expressed their happiness and said they can’t wait to see the chickens at Fir Tree Court as it will make them smile every day. 

Lisa said: “We are absolutely delighted that Fir Tree Court has been chosen as a winner of the 30 Wishes initiative. The addition of the chicken coop will bring real, meaningful benefits to the people we support creating opportunities for daily engagement, building routines and encouraging a sense of responsibility and achievement. It will also enhance wellbeing by providing calming outdoor activities and a shared focus that brings everyone together. 

“This is fantastic outcome that will make a lasting difference to the service.”