Friends for Leisure launches ‘30 for 30’ Campaign to mark Milestone Year

A Cheshire East charity supporting disabled children and young people, has announced the launch of its ’30 for 30’ fundraising campaign to celebrate its 30th anniversary.

Friends for Leisure is appealing for 30 local businesses to each donate £1,000 with the goal of raising £30,000 to support the vital work it provides for children and young people with disabilities across the region.  

Charity Manager, Gillian Jones, commented:

“2025 marks a significant milestone for Friends for Leisure. Providing support and care for so many children for the past three decades is something we’re all very proud of, and we want to continue this incredible work long into the future. We are looking for local businesses to help us give disabled children and young people across Cheshire East access to the friendships they deserve.” 

Originally founded by a group of parents in Macclesfield who wanted to provide friendship and leisure opportunities for their disabled children, the charity now has one full-time, six part-time and five casual members of staff and is supported by a network of up to 100 volunteers. Providing activities during term time and school holidays, the charity aims to reduce loneliness, improve confidence and independence and offer a place for children to make friends and have fun.

Gillian added:

“Away from school, children with disabilities can often be cut off from vital support networks and friendship groups; at Friends for Leisure our goal is to bridge that gap. As a charity we rely on private donations and fundraising. This money doesn’t just help fund our events; it gives parents peace of mind that their children are safe and happy. I am encouraging local businesses to support us and see the difference we can make to these children’s lives together.”

Any company that signs up for Friends for Leisure’s ‘30 for 30’ campaign will be given a special certificate to acknowledge their support and an invitation to the charity’s anniversary fun day in Congleton on October 4th.   

If you’re interested in finding out more about Friends for Leisure and their campaign, visit: 

www.friendsforleisure.org.uk. 

About Friends for Leisure :

Friends for Leisure is a Cheshire East charity which supports disabled children and young people aged between 5-21.

The charity aims to reduce isolation and loneliness, which can often accompany having a disability, as well as improve children’s confidence, self-esteem and overall wellbeing. Operating across Macclesfield, Congleton, Crewe, Knutsford, Sandbach and Disley with head offices in Congleton.  

Friends for Leisure believes everyone needs a friend. The charity is passionate about offering disabled children and young people the opportunity to have everyday friendships and take part in leisure activities, such as drama and sports sessions as well as regular youth groups and ten pin bowling.