December Roundup 2025

December has been a busy and positive month across ISL, with clients and colleagues taking part in a wide range of activities – from fundraising challenges and fitness sessions to community events, outreach support and exciting new opportunities. This is a seperate round up from our Christmas one, just focussing on wider activities.

👉 You can also read our Christmas Round-Up here

Here’s a look at what’s been happening across our services this month:

Mersey Gardens
Mersey Gardens have had a packed and varied December. Clients were supported on a trip to Blackpool SEA LIFE, where they enjoyed exploring the exhibits and even stepping into the shark cage for some fantastic photos.

The team also held a Diversity Day, giving clients the opportunity to try foods from different cultures and celebrate the richness of diversity together.

Alongside this, clients and colleagues took on an impressive John O’Groats to Land’s End step challenge in support of Stick ’n’ Step. While the original goal was 874 miles, a technical mix-up meant the team actually clocked an incredible 1,212 miles, raising £341.25 for the charity — a brilliant achievement and true team effort.

Mersey Gardens – Outreach
One of our outreach clients was supported to attend American Wrestling All Stars, where he had the opportunity to meet the wrestlers and capture some fantastic photos from the day — a memorable experience made possible with the right support in place.

Rapid Response
Mo has announced another charity boxing match in support of Live! Cheshire, following his successful win last year with the support of Coach Sean. Last year’s match raised just over £1,000 for the charity, and preparations are already underway for the next one. 👉 Tap to find out more and support the fundraiser.

Middlewich
Middlewich clients have been keeping active ahead of the New Year, with plenty of woodland walks and gym sessions completed throughout December.

Looking ahead, the team are planning a football training day in January, as well as a boxing match in the New Year. Support worker Ahmed, who boxes in his own time, has been leading training sessions – seen below coaching Service Manager Morgan as they both got into the spirit during a practice session.

Head Office
Our Head Office team held a successful recruitment day in Burton upon Trent, carrying out quick-fire interviews in preparation for a new service opening in the coming months. It was a productive day and an exciting step forward as we continue to grow.

Macclesfield
A brilliant day in Macclesfield kicked off with Paralympian Andy Small challenging Coach Sean to a series of track races – with videos coming soon!

The day continued at our Macclesfield service, where clients took part in creating ‘Christmas Leftovers’ recipes, combining practical skills with creativity and teamwork in the kitchen.

Crewe

We ended the year with a brilliant and heartfelt conversation at our Crewe Service, where Coach Sean sat down with Susie, supported by Deputy Service Manager Emma, to talk about New Year’s resolutions. Susie shared her goal to reduce smoking in the New Year to improve her health, following the loss of her partner to a smoking-related illness. Alongside plenty of laughter, the conversation focused on the importance of realistic, gradual change, with a plan to reduce week by week. Coach Sean will be returning in the New Year to check in and support their progress.

As we head into the New Year, it’s been inspiring to see so much energy, ambition and collaboration across ISL. Thank you to everyone involved for making December such a positive and impactful month.