HRH The Duke of Edinburgh meets halow young adults and staff to celebrate community!

Celebrating Community: His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh celebrated the power of community and culture this week by meeting with local charities who support this work at the Ambassadors Theatre in Woking. During his visit, The Duke met with halow to discuss their life-changing work, affirming the organisation’s role in supporting young adults with learning disabilities and autism across Surrey. &

On Tuesday 26^th November, halow were delighted to attend a special visit of The Duke to celebrate the borough’s vibrant arts, culture and community initiatives. & &

halow’s CEO, Neil Wheeler began the day with a group discussion with The Duke in the Ambassadors Lounge alongside other charity representatives from organisations such as The Lighthouse Charity and the Phoenix Cultural Centre. They all shared insights into their work, the need and impact and highlighted their ongoing efforts to foster cultural and community development. &

Photo credit: Grahame Larter / The Ambassadors Woking

The Duke then joined young people from our Building Futures Programme in the Red Lounge, where he encouraged them to share their ‘View of the Future’ artwork. Our young adults did not disappoint! Delivering dreams ranging from a meadow of animals, to Taylor Swift, to time with friends, our young people truly showed the joy of imagination and the importance of aspiration and hope. Siona Booth, Head of Building Futures said: “The Duke discussed the artwork with the group and engaged with them in such a calm manner. Our young people really enjoyed sharing their hopes and dreams with him.” &

The visit shone a spotlight on halow’s extensive programmes, which benefit over 300 young adults, alongside the families and communities that support them. The Duke’s interest in the charity’s workshops and activities emphasised the importance of creating pathways for independence and inclusion for those with learning disabilities. &

Neil Wheeler, Managing Director of the Halow Project, remarked: &

“It was an honour to share the incredible journeys of our young adults with His Royal Highness. This recognition inspires us to continue breaking barriers and empowering young adults to achieve their dreams.” &

The engagement formed part of a wider celebration of arts, culture, and community at The Ambassadors Woking, underscoring the borough’s dedication to inclusivity and creative growth. &

For more information, visit: https://www.halowproject.org.uk/ & &