1990s
Power in unity
The year 1990 marked a defining moment in our journey—a moment shaped by unity, vision, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of disabled people across our region. That year, we joined hands with our long-standing partner, the Leicestershire Association for the Disabled, to form one inclusive and strengthened organisation: the Leicestershire Guild of the Disabled.
The Association had been a beacon of community support since 1937, reaching over 7,000 individuals through its tireless outreach programmes. Their legacy of care, connection, and local action brought invaluable experience and heart to the work we were already doing. Together, we became greater than the sum of our parts.
This merger opened the door to an even wider range of services and opportunities for our members. It brought with it access to two specialist bungalows at Overstrand, our treasured canal boat, Sunbeam, and a 53-seater coach—all of which expanded the freedom and independence we could offer those we serve.
The decision to unite came from a place of shared purpose. Our Boards worked collaboratively, with care and foresight, recognising that by becoming one organisation, we could offer more consistent, inclusive, and impactful support. The new name—Leicestershire Guild of the Disabled—honoured our roots while embracing the future.
At the heart of this decision was one clear goal: to ensure that every disabled person across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland received the support, respect, and opportunities they deserved. This was not simply a merger—it was a milestone of progress, led by disabled people, for disabled people, with the community standing firmly beside them.
A century of strength
Our Centenary Year was a time of celebration, reflection, and looking boldly toward the future. One hundred years of community, resilience, and unwavering support for disabled people—it was a legacy built by thousands of hands and hearts, and we honoured every one of them.
Our commemorative book, From Strength to Strength by Derek Seaton, offered a heartfelt journey through the Guild’s remarkable story—highlighting the milestones, the faces, and the collective spirit that carried us through a century of service. It was more than a history—it was a tribute to everyone who made our mission possible.
Across the year, we celebrated in true Guild spirit—with events, concerts, competitions, a festival, and a moving exhibition at New Walk Museum. The sense of pride, community, and shared memory echoed in every gathering. It was a year that brought together generations of members, supporters, and friends to honour what had been built—and to imagine what was still to come.
This year also marked the end of an era as we completed the sale of our beloved Cropston Holiday Home, fondly known as ‘The Groves’, a name chosen in honour of our founders. For decades, The Groves had been a place of laughter, respite, and cherished memories for hundreds of disabled people. While saying goodbye was bittersweet, the decision was made with care. The proceeds from its sale were dedicated to vital improvements at our Guild Hall
A new name
As we stepped into a new millennium, it became clear that language, identity, and how we connect with the world around us needed to evolve. Responding to changing times and listening closely to the voices of our members, the Trustees made a significant and heartfelt decision: it was time to change the name of our charity.
But this wasn’t a decision made in isolation—it was made with and by the community. In true Guild spirit, we opened a naming competition, inviting disabled people to help us shape the future. The response was powerful—120 individuals took part, casting 227 votes and offering reflections, ideas, and dreams for what our new identity could represent.
The winning name: Mosaic – Shaping Disability Services.
It was more than a name. It was a vision. Like the intricate pieces of a mosaic—each uniquely shaped and coloured—our community is made up of individuals, each with their own story, needs, and strengths. But when brought together, those individual pieces form something greater: a vibrant, unified design, built on connection, collaboration, and shared purpose.
The change was officially recorded with Companies House in February 2000, and later with the Charity Commission in May—marking a fresh chapter in our long history, one shaped by empowerment, respect, and the belief that everyone should have a voice in the story we’re creating together.
This moment wasn’t just about rebranding—it was about reaffirming who we are. A community-led, forward-thinking organisation, always shaped by the people we serve. A mosaic—where every piece matters.