THRIVE 2026 — Celebrating 25 Years of Independent Lives

Join us for THRIVE 2026 — a warm, celebratory half-day conference marking 25 years of Independent Lives.

This is a morning to connect with customers, commissioners, VCSE partners and the wider community — and to look forward together at what the next chapter can hold.

🎤 Meet our key speakers

• George Dowell MBE — TEDx speaker and community advocate

• Lisa Kerr, Think Exceptionally — neurodiversity coach, professional speaker and business consultant

• Simon Wilson, SimonsAble — disability equality consultant and author, sharing his powerful new autobiography

✨ What's on

• Inspiring keynote talks and a moderated Q&A

• An interactive session — have your say in an accessible, facilitated group activity

• Marketplace stalls from our sponsors and partners

• 25th birthday cupcakes and a group photo moment

• Buffet lunch and open networking

• A raffle with donated prizes

♿ Accessibility

We want everyone to feel genuinely welcome. Please share any access or communication requirements when you register — for example: seating preferences, space for mobility aids, sensory considerations, or communication support. We will do our best to accommodate every need.

🍽 Dietary requirements

Please share any dietary requirements or allergies during registration.

All food will be clearly labelled on the day.

📍 Venue Worthing Football Club, 1864 Lounge, Woodside Road, Worthing BN14 7HQ. The venue is fully accessible.

Doors open at 09:30.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Cherry Simmonds