Voyager Club is a social club run for people with a learning disability living in Merton which has been going on for over 30 years in different forms. Originally the club used to be known as Junior Gateway Club but then in January 1999 after the members became too old to remain in Junior Gateway Club and did not want to leave, we became Voyager Club. Then in April 2007 we took the decision to “go it alone” and left Gateway and Merton Mencap to become an independent club. The members helped plan the new club and always “demand” new and stimulating ways to do things.

The club runs every Tuesday night between 7pm and 8.30pm, except during Christmas and Summer Holidays. We attempt, through the use of dedicated volunteers without whom nothing could happen, to provide a range of activities for all the members regardless of the severity of their disability or difficulties. These include art and craft, putting on shows and going out to various places all of which is aimed at helping the members experience life in addition to giving them a break from home.

Financially, we rely completely on money raised through occasional donations, weekly subs and events such as the shows which everybody puts their full enthusiasm into even for just a few pence. With the change to being independent the necessity to raise more funds just to keep us going is the next challenge for us all, but one that we are ready for. As such, we have had a number of events including Mark, Club Leader, walking to Bognor Regis from Mitcham overnight, in order to keep club going.

As such, for 2017 Mark and Mike (stepson) are going to be walking to every club members house, followed by a disco on 1st July. Although this would normally only be a few miles, because we have some dedicated members who live in Crawley, rather than Mitcham, this will cover a distance of 35 miles all to be done in one day.

Please be generous and donate money to allow the club to continue with the fun and support.