In the months prior to the pandemic, Certitude strengthened its position as the leading not-for-profit support provider in London. We have continued to increase our support to people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs across the capital and are delighted to now be supporting people in Camden, Croydon and through our merger with Yarrow, further extending our reach in London. Our work in the Fulfilling Lives programme is making a significant difference to people by challenging traditional support methods and instead building, through genuine co-production, alternative approaches to support.

Without doubt, technology has played a more important role in all our lives in recent months. In this year’s review, you will read how people have learned new skills and stayed connected. Ultimately though, it’s people who make Certitude what it is. People we support, staff, families and volunteers. People who have this year shown their mettle and not only made the best of a hugely difficult worldwide crisis, but in so many cases learned new skills, boosted others on wobbly days, found new ways to stay in touch and keep each other going.

Very sadly, people we have supported and colleagues we have worked alongside, in some cases for decades, died this year in the early months of the pandemic. Each person we knew well, and loved and admired them for the impact they had on others’ lives. We wanted to share a little bit about each person, why they were so great to know, be with and have in our lives. They are, and will continue to be, missed and our thoughts remain with their families and friends.

Our sincere thanks to staff, volunteers, supporters and Board members for their ongoing commitment and determination to ensure that, even in the most difficult of times, people live the life they want!