The last few golden-brown leaves are clinging to the trees, and the temperature is back in single digits. Another year has slipped through our fingers, and the Christmas lights are on ready for us all to dance the last days of the year away.

As we look back on 2023, we asked Rachel, who is supported by United Response, to share her best memories of the year.  

The Coronation of King Charles III

It feels like many moons ago now, but the coronation of King Charles III in May was a moment in 2023 that will go down in the history books.

Our Teddington community hub The Enterprise hosted a great celebration to mark this important event. Rachel joined in, helping out with the food, and making sure the event was a success.

Watching the King’s Coronation at the Enterprise

Not long after that, the year erupted into bright sunshine, and Rachel and The Enterprise went on a fantastic trip to Brighton. Everyone enjoyed spending time by the sea – although, not many were brave enough to go in! Rachel loved getting some fish and chips by the seaside and paddling.

Chessington World of Adventures

Nobody’s 2023 would be complete without an adventure or two! Rachel went on an epic trip to Chessington World of Adventures, to try out some of the famous rides.

Speaking about Chessington, Rachel said:

If I were to describe it in three words, I would say ‘fun, socialising and being with friends’.

Rachel and her friend Kayleigh at Chessington World of Adventures!

Spooky season in the Tower of London

Halloween was fast upon us, and Rachel and The Enterprise decided to celebrate by going on a spooky boat tour. The boat stopped at the terrifying Tower of London, which is also known as ‘the most haunted building in London’.

The tour group weren’t phased by the Tower’s scary past though. Instead, the event was a great opportunity to meet new people. Rachel said:

People came that I hadn’t met before. I enjoyed spending time with people from different United Response houses.

Matt Campbell, Service Manager, added:

This was a good community trip. My sister, niece and nephew came along. When my niece and nephew were babies, my sister would bring them to visit Rachel, so they’ve grown up knowing her.

Rachel and friends at the Tower of London

Christmas Lights Switch-On

The Enterprise is well-known by locals for its wonderful Christmas events. On the day of the Christmas Lights Switch-On, Teddington town shines with festive lights, rides and fun. Members of the local community flock to the Enterprise to eat, dance, and celebrate each other.

Rachel loved this year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On:

I had a brilliant evening. I enjoyed seeing my friends and seeing visitors coming in.

Rachel and Kayleigh at the Christmas Lights Switch-On

Helping others succeed

2023, for Rachel, was about more than just parties, trips and events though. Rachel cares deeply about helping others, so she searched for opportunities to do this throughout the year. This year, Rachel’s volunteering included teaching people Makaton, a sign language created for people with learning disabilities. Matt said:

Rachel taught me all the Makaton I know!

Rachel also supports people with Dementia in a local care home, helping them with tea and coffee, and keeping them company.

I’ve been doing it for years. What keeps me coming back is the people. The best bit is seeing all the different stories they have to tell. Working there makes me feel proud of myself.

Rachel on the Southbank in the Summer

Help make 2024 even better

The last days of the year will fall through our fingers and before we know it, we will be crying ‘Happy New Year’ once more.

With your support, we can make sure 2024 is packed full of events and opportunities for the people we support. If you have loose change to spare this Christmas, please consider donating it to United Response.

Rachel explained why your support matters:

Your support means I can do some more fun activities!

  • Ali Mills is Communications and Engagement Officer at United Response