About us
Wave stands for We’re All Valued Equally.
This drives everything we do. We like that our work can be summed up in the two meanings of the word ‘wave’, a universal sign of friendship and a powerful force that can break down barriers.
Our aim is to use the experience we have gained from starting and running inclusive groups in North London, to help other communities to mix.
How we started
Wave was started by two parents with first hand experience of the challenges of integrating a child with learning disabilities into their community. They realised that the greatest barrier they faced can’t be overcome by legislation or policy. It needs a change in the attitudes of those who have little or no experience of disability.
The Christian faith of the founders, Bernice and Celia, motivated them to work toward a more inclusive society, based on a belief that in God’s eyes we’re all valued equally. Wave activities have always welcomed and included those of all faiths or none.
Where it all started
WAVE started in Muswell Hill, North London in 2009. Since then we’ve demonstrated how we're all valued equally through various inclusive groups and activities.
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The Challenge Group. For children with additional needs, their parents and carers
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Wave Church. Informal and creative worship, including singing with Makaton signing and bible teaching using pictures, games and drama
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Wave Club. Began as a place where 16-24 year olds, with and without a learning disability, could comfortably meet and have fun together, with cook-ins, games nights, bowling and many other creative and sporting activities. It started pop-up café events and has now become the established Wave Café.
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Wave Café. Established as a separate CIO (charitable incorporated organisation) to promote the Wave ethos.
Watch Celia talking about what motivated her to start Wave
The team behind Wave
Celia Webster
Co-Founder
I co-founded Wave as I am passionate about breaking down barriers for people with and without learning disabilities
Why I'm involved
Bernice Hardie
Co-Founder and CEO
I co-founded Wave because I am passionate about inclusion and know that what we do at Wave helps people with and without learning disabilities to feel more valued in their community
Why I'm involved
I’m involved with Wave because…
I want to see communities change and everyone be valued equally
Why I'm involved
Ingrid Skinner
Trustee
Toby Morrison
Trustee
My reason for being involved in Wave is that I am high functioning autistic and have a passion for inclusion within the charity sector. I have worked and volunteered in the sector since 2006 and completed my degree in Applied Community and Social Studies.
Why I'm involved
Stephanie Buckingham
Trustee
After my son’s autism diagnosis, Wave became a lifeline to me. I honestly wouldn’t have coped without them and feel honoured to be a trustee. I’m also a special needs school Governor.
Why I'm involved
Darrell Myers
Ambassador
I’m involved with Wave Café and like working in the kitchen and doing different activities
Why I'm involved
Richard Davis
Trustee
I am a father of a young lady who has Down’s syndrome and have been involved in the voluntary sector for over thirty years. Wave is something I feel very passionate about.
Why I'm involved
Ophir Yaron
Ambassador
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I'm involved with Wave because I love making change and to be who I am as a person not just with a (l)able of down syndrome, also to inspire everyone.
Why I'm involved
Nancy Sawan
Ambassador
It's a unique organisation focused on the social and emotional tools that individuals with and without learning disabilities need to build truly inclusive communities
Why I'm involved
Ian Hardie
Trustee
I never know what Wave will create or make happen but I know it will make me smile.
I just love being around people who are completely open and real
Why I'm involved
Gerry Stanton
Ambassador
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I passionately believe that mixed ability groups make all our lives better. Wave is an inspirational way to develop such groups.
Why I'm involved
Xavier Azado
Ambassador
Wave is very special to me. People like myself with a learning disability can help others. Everybody’s always got something to give.
Why I'm involved
Ellie Williams
Trustee
I believe strongly that all people are, and should be, valued equally. The personal friendships I've made 'with not for' people with disabilities has been life changing.
Why I'm involved
Simon Upcott
Advisor
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I’m providing input on Wave’s organisational structure, drawn from my experience working in business and with other charities.
Why I'm involved
Anchal Gupta
Trustee
Coming soon
Why I'm involved