News shared by Lisa on behalf of John’s Club. Ed
John’s Club IOW has faithfully served the Isle of Wight for over 30 years, dedicated to the well-being and empowerment of adults with learning difficulties. Founded by the inspiring John Philips, whose own journey reflects resilience and determination, our charity has become a beacon of hope for many.
Today, however, we face a critical juncture: with only less than one month’s funding in the bank, we urgently seek support to continue our vital work in the community. Our annual income is around £200,000, yet the depth of our mission goes beyond financial figures. It is about the lives we touch, the futures we nurture and the dignity we uphold. Funds are needed urgently, and Islanders can help by supporting their Go Fund Me campaign.
The need for support
On the Isle of Wight, many adults living with learning difficulties find themselves vulnerable and isolated, often at risk of bullying and criminal exploitation. Our community is marked by poverty, and for many, the struggle to access basic life skills becomes overwhelming.
John’s Club IOW offers a lifeline through user-led initiatives designed to promote independence, provide social inclusion, and develop employability skills. However, without immediate financial support, we risk closure, leaving our users without the essential services they need to thrive.
Project overview
We seek funding to support the continuation and enhancement of our services to actively run from June 2025. We aim to provide day care facilities where learning disabled adults can access nutritious food while learning crucial life skills and making friends. Our comprehensive support structure includes guidance on accessing benefits and bolstering employability prospects. Our transport service helps people get to medical and dental appointments.
In Shanklin, we operate a daily hub that provides a safe space for adults to gather, and in Ryde, we foster a vibrant social environment featuring board games, arts and crafts, disco nights, and a welcoming warm space. Our dual approach not only highlights the importance of skill acquisition but also prioritises the emotional and social well-being of our users—elements that are just as critical for a fulfilling life.
On a broader scale, our community will benefit from access to local football at our Ryde site, allowing young people of all abilities to engage in competitive sports, fostering camaraderie and healthy living.
Community impact and engagement
John’s Club IOW stands at the heart of our local community. Our facilities are available for use by families for affordable children’s parties, local arts and community groups, and offer opportunities for various clubs. This integration not only utilises our space effectively but also enhances community cohesion.
We will implement rigorous monitoring and evaluation processes, including daily and weekly attendance records, feedback discussions, and visual documentation through photography and video. These methods will ensure that we capture and report the real impact of our work to our funders.
Financial overview
Our annual budget of £200,000 is divided across essential operational costs to sustain our charity:
- Wages & volunteer expenses: £100,000
- Motor and Travel: £15,000
- Rent/Repairs: £20,000
- Postage and Communications: £5,000
- Insurance: £15,000
- Activity Expenses: £35,000
- Finance/Governance: £10,000
We’re writing several bids aiming to secure contributions towards these core costs, empowering us to continue our essential services and thereby benefitting the wider community through a reduction in social care costs, policing, and anti-social behaviour associated costs. Our income at the moment from service user entrance fees (£2 per session), adult social care and other trading brings in around £40,000 but the rest we need to raise ourselves through grants and donations.
Conclusion
With your support, John’s Club IOW can continue to flourish as a sanctuary for those most in need. We implore you to consider funding our vital project, which is not just an investment in our charity but an investment in the health, safety, and prosperity of the Isle of Wight community.
Help us create an inclusive society where every person has the opportunity to live safely, develop meaningful skills, and thrive in a nurturing environment. Together, we can turn the tide for vulnerable adults and build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
We’ve set up a Go Fund Me, with John and the team walking 100 miles across the Island to raise vital funds, please give what you can via Go Fund Me.
