Discover Your Ability 2026 Inspires Hundreds and Raised £20,000 for Disability Charity

Able2B's Discover Your Ability 2026 brought together more than 250 participants to celebrate inclusion, raise over £20,000 and prove that disability does not define potential.

Over 250 people from across the UK and Europe came together in Norwich for Able2B's flagship Discover Your Ability 2026 event, raising more than £20,000 so far while delivering an inspiring reminder that disability should never define a person's potential.

Rather than focusing on competition, the annual event celebrates determination, inclusion and personal achievement. 

Children, young people and adults living with disabilities, neurological conditions and long-term health conditions tackled a series of physical challenges side by side, encouraging one another every step of the way.

For the team at Able2B, the day represents much more than a fundraising event. It demonstrates the charity's belief that with the right support, encouragement and opportunities, people can achieve far more than they or others may once have believed possible.

Throughout the day there were countless inspirational moments.

Tommy, who suffered a global brain injury following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, had once been told he was unlikely to survive and would never walk or communicate again. This year he independently completed the course in his powered wheelchair before walking the final 30 to 40 metres with support.

Twenty-four-year-old Holly, who had been unable to stand just four months ago after spending around three years in a wheelchair, thrilled supporters by running approximately 200 metres across the finish line.

Participants also travelled from Ireland, Germany and across Britain. Among them was Anke, who lives with cerebral palsy. After previously being told she required a hip replacement because of severe pain, she completed the course using hiking poles, pain free, following support from Able2B.

Eight-year-old Harry also captured hearts. Just three years ago he relied on a K-walker and lacked the confidence to join in with other children. This year he spent the day running lap after lap with his teammates as his proud parents watched from the sidelines.

Co-founder and consultant orthopaedic surgeon Rachael Hutchinson said the most powerful part of the day was seeing strangers become teammates, supporting one another regardless of their individual challenges.

Former British and European boxing champion and Able2B co-founder Jon Thaxton added that success is measured not simply by crossing a finish line, but by the confidence gained, friendships formed and perceptions changed.

With planning already underway for Discover Your Ability 2027, the charity continues to prove that when barriers are removed and opportunities are created, extraordinary things really can happen.

Those wishing to support Able2B's life-changing work can still donate through the Discover Your Ability 2026 JustGiving page, https://www.justgiving.com/page/able2b-directors-23?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

https://www.able2b.co.uk

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: Why Protecting Older People Matters

Mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by learning how to recognise the signs of elder abuse, support vulnerable older people and help create safer communities.

Every year on 15 June, people around the world come together to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), a day dedicated to highlighting a hidden issue that affects millions of older people globally.

While many of us think of later life as a time to enjoy retirement, family and community connections, the reality is that some older adults face abuse, neglect and exploitation behind closed doors. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day serves as an important reminder that everyone deserves to age with dignity, respect and safety.

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse refers to any act, or failure to act, that causes harm or distress to an older person. It can take many forms, including:

Physical abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse

Financial exploitation

Neglect

Sexual abuse

Discriminatory abuse

Financial abuse is one of the most commonly reported forms of elder abuse in the UK. This can involve theft, pressure to change a will, misuse of bank accounts or coercion to hand over money or property.

Sadly, abuse is often carried out by someone the older person knows and trusts, making it particularly difficult to identify and report.

A Growing Concern

As the UK's population continues to age, protecting older people is becoming increasingly important. Many older adults live independently and enjoy active, fulfilling lives, but factors such as social isolation, poor health, cognitive decline and dependence on others can increase vulnerability.

Loneliness can also play a significant role. Older people who have limited social contact may have fewer opportunities to seek help or share concerns about their situation.

The true scale of elder abuse is difficult to measure because many cases go unreported. Victims may feel ashamed, frightened, dependent on their abuser or worried about the consequences of speaking out.

How We Can Help

Preventing elder abuse is not solely the responsibility of healthcare professionals or social services. Communities, families, neighbours and friends all have a role to play.

Simple actions can make a difference:

Stay in regular contact with older relatives and neighbours.

Look out for sudden changes in behaviour, appearance or finances.

Encourage older people to remain socially connected.

Listen without judgement if concerns are raised.

Report suspected abuse through appropriate safeguarding channels.

Sometimes, simply checking in on someone can help them feel supported and less isolated.

Creating a Society That Values Older People

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is also an opportunity to challenge ageism and recognise the valuable contributions older people make to our communities every day.

Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and valued, regardless of age. By raising awareness, encouraging conversations and supporting those who may be vulnerable, we can help create a society where older people can live free from abuse and fear.

This 15 June, take a moment to reach out to an older friend, neighbour or family member. A simple conversation could make a bigger difference than you realise.