Who we are
A community charity, rooted in Lambeth, with a movement behind us.
Rathbone Society started outreach work for adults with learning disabilities in Lambeth in 1990. Our values of respect, equality, integration, and choice come from a much longer story: a movement of pioneering social reform that's been quietly shaping inclusion for over a century.
Our purpose
What we exist to do
Mission
To support adults with learning disabilities and young people in Lambeth to live full, independent, connected lives, through trusted services, safe spaces, and opportunities that build skills and community.
Vision
A Lambeth where every adult with a learning disability has the support they need to live the life they want, and every young person has a place to belong, learn, and grow.
Values
Respect. Equality. Integration. Choice. Four words, carried forward from Elfrida Rathbone's original work over a century ago, and as relevant now as they were then.
Our heritage
The Rathbone story
Elfrida Rathbone was a pioneering social reformer who advocated for education, inclusion, and the rights of people with learning disabilities at a time when few did. Working alongside her cousin Lilian Gregg, she pioneered education for children deemed "ineducable", pushing back against the prevailing view of her time.
Her cousin Eleanor Rathbone was one of the first women magistrates and, in 1929, became an independent MP. She championed family allowances paid directly to mothers, women's suffrage, and housing reform.
Their work seeded a movement. Five charities trace their origins to Elfrida's pioneering: The Elfrida Society, Elfrida Rathbone, Generate (Tooting), Rathbone Manchester, and Rathbone Society (Lambeth). The movement's centenary was celebrated at the House of Lords in 2016.
Today's Rathbone Society Lambeth is a UK registered charity (number 1096727). We employ 76 staff and work with 9 trustees and 31 volunteers. Our 2024–25 income was £2.47 million, predominantly from local authority commissioning and grants. We are CQC rated Good.
The work Elfrida began continues. The faces and methods change; the values don't.
Our impact
By the numbers
76
staff supporting our community
31
volunteers giving their time
3
community spaces in Lambeth
35+
years serving Lambeth
Who runs the show
Our leadership team
A small senior team supported by experienced trustees and managers.
Be part of the next chapter
Help us continue Elfrida's work
Whether you're a funder, a partner, a volunteer, or someone who wants to give what you can. There are real ways to be part of what we do next.