Chance to Choose has a rich and meaningful history. The project was never a charity but a Sheffield City Council initiative that came out of the Disability Service Provision and Adsetts Day Centre. It was initiated and managed by Mark Wilkinson, an employee of the council, with the aim of creating an opportunity for people with varying needs to establish and run a service for others in similar situations.

Chance to Choose produced a monthly video magazine in Sheffield, focusing on disability issues and accessibility news. The project was entirely run by individuals with learning disabilities and was based near the markets in Sheffield, equipped with its own camera equipment and editing suite. The council eventually had to withdraw funding due to changes in how day services were delivered, which led to the closure of the project.

After this, Mark went on to become a director in documentary film, making work for Channel 4, BBC and ITN. He received a Royal Television Society Award for a BBC film about the life of a young girl with a terminal illness, and produced a wide range of documentaries and series across major broadcasters. He later established JTV Cancer Support, a website for young people with cancer to tell their stories, and Leeds Children’s Hospital TV, which helps young people and families navigate the challenges of long-term illness and hospital stays.

Today, we are working to relaunch Chance to Choose and carry forward its important legacy.

Our mission is to support individuals with learning disabilities through an online information hub that provides easy-read versions of essential resources, making vital information more accessible. We also run a thriving weekly art group where members create paintings, clay models, and other artwork, while enjoying social time with chats and sing-alongs. Members contribute a small fee of three pounds each week, which helps cover art materials, volunteer travel, and refreshments like tea, coffee and biscuits.

Looking ahead, we aim to expand by launching a regular blog focused on disability news, particularly learning disabilities. As we grow, we are seeking passionate volunteers, a dedicated treasurer, and an expert to guide us towards becoming a registered charity.

We are fortunate to have free space at the moment, but as our community grows, we hope to find a larger venue to accommodate everyone comfortably. While we cannot yet accept monetary donations, we welcome donations of art materials to support our activities. With the right support, we believe Chance to Choose can once again make a meaningful impact in the community and honour its legacy.