ILEAP's History
ILEAP – Our Story
ILEAP began in 1996 as the Stratford Summer Activities Project for Disabled Children, based at Stratford-on-Avon District Council. The project was initially supported by a strong local partnership including the District Council, Social Services, Community Education, the Council for Voluntary Service and Scope.
From the outset, the aim was simple but powerful: to enable disabled children to access community leisure opportunities during the long summer holidays—something many were otherwise excluded from.
In 1998, these partners formed a steering group and developed the ILEAP mission. With support from BBC Children in Need, funding was secured for a Project Co-ordinator, allowing the project to grow and reach more families.
By 2001, ILEAP had evolved into an independent organisation, led by a voluntary management committee of parents, professionals and volunteers. Later that year, ILEAP became a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.
Growing a Community
With charitable funding, ILEAP expanded beyond summer provision to deliver activities across all school holidays and into evenings and weekends. Weekly small-group sessions quickly became the heart of the organisation—creating safe, social spaces where members could build friendships, confidence and independence.
In 2002, ILEAP extended into Warwick District through an inclusive play project funded by Barnardo’s, becoming a South Warwickshire charity.
A pivotal moment came in 2003 when adults with learning disabilities asked ILEAP for support. In response, the Let’s Goproject was created—ensuring continuity of support into adulthood. From this point, ILEAP became a charity for both children and adults.
Recognition and Development
Throughout the 2000s, ILEAP continued to grow, supported by funding from the National Lottery, BBC Children in Need and other trusts.
Key milestones included:
- Supporting over 150 members by 2010
- Receiving county and district awards for involvement and inclusion
- Developing a strong reputation for user-led services shaped by members and families
ILEAP’s approach has always been rooted in listening—empowering members to shape activities and lead the direction of the organisation.
Adapting to Change
In 2013, a major shift occurred when local authority funding was redirected to individuals through personal budgets. With only one month’s notice, ILEAP lost core funding.
Rather than stepping back, the charity adapted.
We:
- Increased session capacity and efficiency
- Introduced modest, subsidised pricing
- Drew on reserves strategically
- Began developing new income streams
This period tested the organisation—but also strengthened its resilience and independence.
Innovation and Enterprise
In response to financial pressures, ILEAP launched MarketAbility, a social enterprise developed directly with members.
What began as a volunteering market stall evolved into a skills-based programme, where members design, create and sell products. This initiative builds confidence, develops practical skills and raises awareness in the community.
By 2016, MarketAbility had grown into a daytime service based at The Kenilworth Centre, offering structured, purposeful activities including crafts, cooking, gardening and retail experience.
Strengthening Foundations
Following the challenges of COVID-19, ILEAP took the opportunity to strengthen its infrastructure and future-proof the organisation.
Key developments included:
- Introducing improved staff contracts and structured roles
- Creating dedicated finance, coordination and admin posts
- Outsourcing HR, payroll and compliance functions
- Investing in training, safeguarding and quality systems
- Implementing digital systems for bookings, data and communication
These changes have improved sustainability, governance and service quality.
Where We Are Now
ILEAP now delivers over 900 sessions per year, supporting hundreds of individuals to access inclusive leisure opportunities.
Our approach focuses on:
- Smaller, personalised group sessions
- User-led activities shaped by members
- Building confidence, independence and friendships
- Creating welcoming, inclusive community spaces
We continue to balance sustainability with accessibility—keeping sessions affordable while maintaining high-quality support.
Looking Ahead
With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and increasing pressure on families, our focus is clear:
to provide high-quality, inclusive opportunities at a price people can afford.
We are:
- Expanding grant funding (including a recent National Lottery award)
- Growing partnerships and community support
- Developing new user-led initiatives
- Strengthening our workforce and governance
Get Involved
ILEAP is built on community.
If you can support us—through fundraising, volunteering, sharing skills or advocating locally—we would love to hear from you.
Together, we can continue to create opportunities for fun, friendship and independence for everyone.
