Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s WECIL Annual General Meeting (AGM)! It was a day filled with updates, gratitude, and big plans for the future as we continue to work toward a more inclusive, Disability-Equal society.
Reflecting on Our Impact
Our Chair, Ruth Pickersgill, opened the meeting by sharing highlights from an impactful year. From amplifying Disabled voices across Bristol and beyond to expanding services that address real needs in our community, WECIL has stayed dedicated to Disability Equality. The progress is clear, but we’re reminded that there’s more to do. Disabled people continue to face barriers to equity and inclusion, and WECIL’s work is all about tackling those head-on.
CEO Dominic Ellison outlined the record number of Disabled people WECIL supported this year – a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and partners. Among our key achievements:
- Increased Service Reach: Our services, from the Navigator program to direct payments support, helped thousands of Disabled individuals achieve greater independence.
- Strong Community Partnerships: Programs like Know Your Rights and People’s Voice empowered learning-disabled and neurodivergent people to advocate for themselves.
- Widespread Recognition: WECIL was honoured with several awards, including the UK Power of Community Award and the Bristol Social Impact, Equity, and Diversity Award.
Building for a Strong Financial Future
Our Treasurer, Vicki Kaye, delivered the financial report, announcing that WECIL closed the year an unrestricted result of £110,000, which is a £207k improvement on budget, and solid reserves. Over £2 million in income means we’re well-positioned to grow, even amidst financial challenges. Vicki also introduced new auditors, Moore UK, and assured members of WECIL’s strong financial health and commitment to sustainability.
The membership voted for Moore UK to be appointed as WECIL’s Auditors for the current financial year.
WECIL’s Full Accounts and Annual Report are available here.
The Annual Accounts for our trading subsidiary, WECIL Social Enterprise Ltd. are available here.
Constitutional Changes and New Voices
This AGM also marked the approval of some exciting constitutional changes, reinforcing WECIL’s mission to be an organisation led by and for Disabled people. These updates include:
- More Representation: people who use WECIL services now have dedicated positions on the board, providing direct insight into WECIL’s leadership and decisions.
- Lower Trustee Age: We’re opening the board to younger voices by reducing the minimum trustee age to 16, encouraging youth participation and diverse perspectives.
- Paid Lived Experience Roles: To value the lived experience of Disabled people, new provisions now enable payment for trustees contributing in part-time advocacy or support roles.
With these changes, WECIL is ensuring its leadership reflects the community it serves – driven by people with lived experience and fueled by an inclusive vision.
The full details of the constitutional changes that were approved by members are available here, with and Easy Read version available here.
Thank You for Being Part of This Journey
WECIL’s future is shaped by our members and supporters. We invite you to join us as a member to have your voice heard in next year’s AGM and help us strengthen our impact. Together, we can continue to champion Disability Equality and make Bristol a city where all Disabled people can thrive.
Become a member today!
If you are not already a WECIL Member, sign up using this form to have your voice heard at next year’s AGM!
