A Bodmin businessman who runs an inclusive social group for young people and adults with additional needs is set to meet Prince Harry at an upcoming awards ceremony.  

Kelvin Donaghy, who runs the Equally Abled group in addition to well-known Bodmin business The Pad, has been named as a winner of the 2023 WellChild Awards ‘Parent Carer’ category. 

His wife Sam nominated Kelvin for the WellChild Award to celebrate the phenomenal work he does in his own time for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Inspired by his daughter who has a complex set of health conditions including cerebral palsy, learning disabilities and scoliosis, Kelvin set up and runs the ‘Equally Abled’. group 

It is a group which allows young people with complex medical conditions and disabilities to ‘hang out’ like any other teenagers. 

The group has had such a positive impact on the young people’s lives and has been so successful that now Kelvin has set up a second group called ‘Equally Abled Junior’ aimed at younger people with various complex needs and disabilities. Kelvin has set up and runs these groups in his own time. 

Sam said “He has made a huge difference in so many young peoples’ lives. They are no longer isolated; they belong. 

“They have friends like other teenagers, and they have a safe place to meet and be themselves where they don’t have to suppress their feelings, tics or sensory needs.

“I’m extremely proud of him and what he does within our community, and he fully deserves some recognition’. 

Prince Harry, WellChild patron, who will be presenting the award, said: “For nearly 20 years, WellChild has been transforming the lives of children and young people across the UK, providing critical care that prioritises the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of these individuals and their families. 

“The courage and strength embodied by these young people – and the tireless devotion of those who support them – never cease to inspire me. 

“I’m honoured to attend this year’s awards ceremony and celebrate their incredible work.”