2010s
A new home
With a deep sense of urgency and responsibility, we set out to find a permanent, welcoming home for our members—somewhere that could truly reflect the values we’ve carried for generations.
That vision came to life at a new building in the Blaby Business Park. Inspired by the determination of our founders, the Board of Trustees—many of them with lived experience of disability—committed to creating this new space debt-free. Through the careful stewardship of funds from the sale of Cropston Holiday Home and The Guild Hall, we were able to honour that commitment.
Every detail of the new home was shaped with care, not just meeting, but exceeding the standards set by the Disability Discrimination Act of 1995. Because for us, accessibility is not a box to tick—it’s a promise to uphold.
This building wasn’t just about bricks and walls. It was about dignity, autonomy, and belonging. It was about creating a space designed by disabled people, for disabled people—a true reflection of our past, present, and future.
A dream still ours
In the mid-2000s, our ambition knew no bounds. We dreamt of creating something extraordinary: a multi-purpose, fully accessible community hub nestled in the heart of Watermead Country Park—a space where disabled people could connect, create, thrive, and feel completely at home.
With support from Leicestershire County Council, our Trustees spent countless hours with architects, poring over plans that reflected not just bricks and mortar, but hope, inclusion, and opportunity. We imagined a vibrant centre, designed with care: level access, dedicated parking, space for day services and group activities, and strong transport links to welcome everyone.
But as the vision grew, so did the challenges. We were asked to shoulder the full cost of planning, development, and construction, just as commissioned contracts were being reduced. Still, we pressed on—buoyed by a generous grant agreement from Raynsway Properties, who offered £1 million through a Section 106 arrangement. It was a moment of renewed confidence. We believed we could bring this vision to life.
Then came a devastating blow: the sudden passing of Charlie Rayns, whose personal belief in our mission had been key to securing the support. With his loss, Raynsway had to withdraw the funding, and our dream of Watermead slipped from our grasp. The council ultimately decided to build a different facility of their own, and we were left not only without a site—but with over £100,000 in costs written off.
It was a hard moment—a reminder of how unpredictable and fragile progress can be. But in true Mosaic spirit, we didn’t stop. We grieved the loss of an opportunity, not the loss of our purpose. We returned to the search, holding tight to our mission and the belief that the right space would come, because our community deserved nothing less.
Time for adventure
In a changing world and a growing desire for adventure, we created unforgettable, accessible getaways for disabled people and their families—meeting deep needs for rest, joy, and connection. From our much-loved holiday homes in Cromer, gifted by the kind and visionary late Patrick Corah, to the remarkable Sunbeam II, we continued to champion experiences that speak of dignity and freedom.
Following the retirement of our original Sunbeam—a beloved adapted narrowboat that served us for nearly four decades and carried 40,000 passengers—there was a clear gap in the provision. But with the characteristic heart of our community, volunteers came together to dream again. They designed, fundraised, and oversaw the creation of a brand-new canal boat. Thanks to the generosity of local foundations, long-standing supporters, the Rotary Club of The Wreake Valley, and the sale of the original boat, we raised over £79,000. Their donation even funded a specialist lift, making Sunbeam II fully accessible.
Built by MGM Boats and launched in 2018, Sunbeam II offers peaceful journeys along the River Soar for up to 12 people, including four wheelchair users. A hoist, accessible kitchen and toilet, and spacious interior make it more than a vessel—it’s a place of togetherness. The High Sheriff of Leicestershire presided over its opening at the Hope and Anchor, a true community celebration.
Entirely volunteer-run, Sunbeam II offers more than just a day out—it brings new friendships, shared laughter, and the restorative beauty of nature to those who need it most.