Charity celebrates achievements as it launches 50th anniversary.

As Les Amis starts 2025 celebrating its first 50 years, the charity that supports adults with learning disabilities has been marking the achievements of its members. Over 140 service users, family and staff got together at the Hotel Ambassadeur just before Christmas to celebrate and look forward to its 50th anniversary.

Awards were made for representing the charity, gaining independence and personal development.

Award winners included -

Shamina Pryor – Representing Les Amis Award – Shamina is always the first to volunteer to sell raffle tickets, bake cakes and sell them, making herself and the organisation known to islanders.

Mel De Lacy – Gaining Independence Award – Mel moved out of a house into a new home in 2024, gaining independence and learning how to navigate significant parts of her day without staff support.

Ken Hamon – Turning Up and Being a Total Star Award – Where there’s a social activity Ken will always be there with a smile on his face. He has attended nearly every single social event since 2022, only missing a few due to sickness.

Christina Schiliaci – Excellent Personal Development Award – on top of her job at BSK, Christina took on several courses with BSK in 2024. Learning money Skills and other life skills.

Shaun Findlay, Les Amis’ Managing Director, said: “This was the largest celebration we’ve ever held, and we wanted to share all the fantastic things our members have achieved in the last twelve months as we head into our 50th year. Les Amis does so much good for the island and we hope that people understand the value that learning disabled adults contribute to Jersey. These awards prove that they can develop and achieve remarkable things, but that they do it at a different pace to others, whether that’s moving into their apartment on their own or gaining news skills at work.”

Les Amis is planning a series of events highlighting its achievements since its founding in 1975 with new campaigns to raise funds and awareness.

See coverage of the event on Bailiwick Express and Channel Eye.