Rescare UK Charity

Our Story

Rescare is charity, founded in 1984, by and for the family carers of people with learning disabilities. At that time their children and loved ones were facing, or experiencing, relocation from large NHS hospitals (then commonly referred to as asylums) - with inadequate or non-existent transition planning.

From those early campaigns to bring this situation to the attention of politicians, decision-makers and the wider public, Rescare has developed particular knowledge of the issues facing the families of people with learning disabilities.

More recently Rescare has campaigned on a range of issues around choice for people with learning disabilities, and for the involvement of family members in decisions which affect their lives. This includes choice in accommodation and education. Rescare is particularly interested in the concept of community living, and has developed links with various ‘village communities’. Rescare also runs a free helpline to support families with any issues they are facing.