Prayer Diary Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
Prayers for YOU If you are bereaved or in low spirits… Loving God, surround and comfort me with your love so I may know your peace. I pray for kindness and compassion from those around me to help lift my heavy heart. Amen. Lord, I turn to you for comfort and solace. Be near me in my grief to help me through it. Give me courage and strength to face each day. I give thanks for your unconditional love when I need it most. Amen. 2
Welcome to our Prayer Diary Dear friends, This seasonal Prayer Diary gives you an insight into Shaftesbury’s work in the hope it will inspire you to champion people with disabilities and sustain our work through prayer. It matters not which words you use. Whether you are new to prayer, or have been praying for many years, we deeply value your support. We are proud to include prayers written by people we support and staff members, some of whom have disabilities too. We try to keep the language simple to make it as accessible as possible. This autumn we reflect on how showing vulnerability can give us strength and help us find peace, even when times are challenging. Our theme for winter is the joy of inclusion. People we support can be more vulnerable in the winter months so we join together to pray for their good health so they can enjoy Christmas celebrations.
Of course, there are also some who find this festive season difficult. A new year gives us the opportunity to pray for a hopeful future for the whole Shaftesbury community. May these prayers deepen your relationship with God and strengthen children, young people and adults with disabilities. With your prayerful support, we continue to transform lives. Until next time, Sally Chivers Chief Executive PS Have you seen the online Prayer Diary? It includes the same content but saves on print and postage costs. If you’d like to receive your Prayer Diary electronically, go to www. shaftesburygroup.org/prayer or scan the QR code: If you’d like to contribute prayers for our next issue, we welcome them via email at communications@ shaftesburygroup.org
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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Learning Encouragement Support Confidence
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Shaftesbury Prayer Diary
Our theme for autumn: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
September
September
Week 1 Dear God, thank you for the warmth and fun of summer. The leaves are now falling from the trees. Sometimes we find change hard. We can feel spiky like conker cases, or like the smooth velvet inside the cases. This reminds us we are beautiful inside and out. Amen. *Written by a member of our prayer circle
Week 2 Lord Jesus, as the academic year starts, we pray for students returning to our school and colleges. Help them to establish good routines, to settle in, and find friends. Bless their studies and give them curiosity for learning. Amen. *Written by a staff member
Week 3 We thank you Lord for all those in the Shaftesbury community; for our staff, volunteers and loyal supporters. Without them we could not lift up those made vulnerable by disability. We are thankful that people we support are also a comfort to each other. Together we are stronger, finding purpose and joy in our work. Amen.
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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September
Week 4 Almighty God, we pray for all those who make our residential homes warm and nurturing places to live. We know it can be a demanding job at times, both physically and mentally, especially when caring for those with complex needs. We are thankful for all our staff – support workers, nurses, cooks, cleaners, drivers, maintenance workers. Their dedication is what makes it a home for people we support. Amen.
Week 5 Heavenly Father, we give thanks and praise for the young people living independently of their families in our supported living services. We understand this is a huge step for them and for their loved ones. We pray they can lead a full and meaningful life. Amen.
Why our work matters
Society’s attitudes towards disability are mainly negative, often focusing on impairments and limitations, according to research commissioned by government*. These negative attitudes affect how people with disabilities perceive themselves which can lead to mental health issues, social isolation, and low self-esteem. The stigma of disability means some people do not feel comfortable disclosing their impairments and will avoid seeking help. This only adds to feelings of loneliness. An important part of the work we do is to support people to feel included and valued in their community. *Source: GOV.UK: Public perceptions and attitudes towards disabled people: a thematic report, January 2026
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The value of volunteering Annie, from Shaftesbury Stirling Road in Bournemouth, has been supported to find a volunteering opportunity to boost her confidence and meet new people. She is now a valued volunteer for the British Heart Foundation and is enthusiastic about her role at the charity’s local shop. She loves being part of a friendly team, helping customers and making them feel welcome. Annie has learned the importance of following safety procedures and understands how keeping herself and others safe is an important part of volunteering. She is excited to develop new skills, including how to operate the till. “Volunteering has helped me meet new people and be in a better headspace. It makes me feel happy and fulfilled, and I’d encourage anyone thinking about volunteering to give it a try.”
Support
Please support us so we can continue to make life add up for children, young people and adults with disabilities. Donate online at www.shaftesburygroup.org/donate Thank you. Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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October Let us pray
Dear God, it’s getting dark earlier. We ask for your love and peace. Hold us in the darkness and guide us to the dawn. Amen. *Written by a member of our prayer circle
Week 1 Gracious God, we pray for the families caring for a child or young person with disabilities. At times it can be lonely and exhausting. We thank you for our children’s service Thrive that offers specialist support to families who need it. Our trained professionals offer a listening ear when times are challenging and provide much-needed respite to families and carers. Amen.
Week 2 Dear God, the golden leaves of autumn crunch on the pavement – under our feet or under our wheelchairs. Some of us hear a loud crunch we love, others are overwhelmed by noise. Some of us need help to navigate, whether from carers or technology. It’s not always easy. Thank you for loving us and keeping us safe. Amen. *Written by a member of our prayer circle
Week 3 Lord, we give thanks for our dementia support service which offers invaluable help for those learning to live with memory loss. Most of us know someone made vulnerable in this way. Dementia can be confusing and frightening. Let them know your love, Lord and give them strength and resilience. We pray too for their carers as they face uncertain times ahead. Amen. 8
We thank you God for carers and support workers. Their compassion and commitment makes such a difference to the lives of people with disabilities. They bring joy and light, even when situations are challenging and they face their own struggles. We pray they find reward and fulfilment in their work. Amen.
October
Week 4
Faith Love Compassion Hope
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September
Why our work matters
Every 90 seconds, someone in the UK is admitted to hospital with a brain injury*. In that moment, life changes — not just for the individual, but for their family, friends and colleagues, often altering the course of their lives long into the future. The aftermath of a newly acquired brain injury can vary hugely depending on where the individual lives and what services are available in that area. “For some people, specialist rehabilitation opens the door to recovery, independence, and rebuilding their life. For others, that door is much harder to find,” says Ellie Appleton, Clinical Service Manager at Shaftesbury Icanho. *Source: Headway, the brain injury association
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Supported back to work Sarah suffered a stroke at the age of 55, despite her fit and active lifestyle. Before being referred to us, she spent a month in hospital, barely able to sit up unaided. She felt isolated and couldn’t see a way forward. After nine months of physical and occupational therapy at Shaftesbury Icanho, Sarah was gradually able to rebuild her life. With our support, she returned to work 16 months after the stroke – something that was very important to her. Sarah’s story is testament to how vital access to specialist rehabilitation is: “Without Icanho, I would not be the person I am today. They helped me achieve all my goals, and more. If I had gone home from hospital with nothing to work towards, how could I progress, even begin to get my life back?” Sarah went on to compete in a challenge event to fundraise for us, successfully completing a two-mile swim in London’s Hyde Park. “This was massive for me – something I really, really wanted to do. Raising money for Shaftesbury is so personal to me after the journey I’ve been on. It really motivated me to recover.”
Support
Our brain injury rehabilitation service enables clients to see they have a future. You can support this work by donating at www.shaftesburygroup.org/donate Thank you. Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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Fun Singing Gardening Games
November Let us pray
Lord, we pray that people with complex medical needs find strength and courage to face their unique challenges. May your light shine upon them Lord. Help us remember we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. Amen.
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Shaftesbury Prayer Diary
Loving God, fill our homes with righteousness, peace, and compassion. Bless our residents, families, and staff with strength and kindness. Protect those who are vulnerable, bring comfort to those in need, and let your love flourish among us each day. Amen.
November
Week 1
*Written by a person we support
Week 2 Dear Lord, our hearts go out to people who are unwell or in hospital. We think of the upheaval and distress it brings to their families. Give them hope and resilience in challenging times. Amen.
Week 3 Heavenly Father, fill our hearts with your love so our lives reflect your goodness. Help us to shine light on others through our words, actions and deeds. Let us bring comfort to people going through difficult times. Amen.
Week 4 Father God, we know your strength is made perfect in our weakness, but still it can feel hard to accept our vulnerability. We pray for people we support at Shaftesbury Icanho, who are learning to adjust to life after stroke and a brain injury. Help them to know they are loved not for what they can do but for who they are. And walk beside them as they regain mobility, speech, and independence. Amen. * Written by a staff member
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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November
Why our work matters
One in four adults in the UK experiences a mental health problem, according to the latest figures*. This equates to 14m people, a rise of 4.8m in the last 15 years. Young people, women, and those who are less well-off are more likely to experience poor mental health. *Source: Mental Health Foundation report, June 2026
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Finding purpose in life When Charlie first arrived at Shaftesbury Netteswell Rectory at the age of 19, she was very quiet and reserved.
By working closely with professionals and fully engaging with the support offered, she has really come out of herself. Staff are delighted to see such positive changes over the four years she’s been with us. “Over time she has become much happier, more confident, and actively participates in conversations and activities,” says Deputy Manager, Emily. “Charlie has shown real dedication to improving her wellbeing,” she adds. What’s particularly inspiring is Charlie’s support for others living at this Shaftesbury residential service. She is extremely kind and helpful to the older residents, always encouraging them to participate in social activities.
Support
Your donation means we can continue providing an exceptional level of care for children and young people. Please support our work by donating at www.shaftesburygroup.org/donate Thank you. Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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December Our theme for winter: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10 Week 1 Lord Jesus, we pray for all who work for or volunteer with Shaftesbury, bringing light into challenging situations. We give thanks for their dedication and commitment to the people we support. Amen.
Week 2 Wow, Christmas is coming! Bright lights in winter darkness, chocolate behind advent calendar doors, hope of better days mixed with challenges and anxiety. Plans are made for Christmas visits and activities. Keep with us in the hard times and the good times. Amen. *Written by a member of our prayer circle
Week 3 Lord Jesus, at Christmas you arrived as a baby, and the shepherds ran to meet you joyfully. We pray for everyone who finds this season difficult and can’t be joyful at the moment. We pray for everyone who is grieving, who feels isolated, or in pain. Help us to be gentle with them and please bring them comfort. Amen. *Written by a staff member
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Shaftesbury Prayer Diary
Dear Lord, may everyone in the Shaftesbury community feel loved and included as they celebrate the birth of Jesus. We join together to share a message of peace, hope and goodwill. We give thanks for the generosity of donors at this time of year. Their support enables us to expand our reach, making a difference to more lives. Amen.
December
Week 4
Week 5 Lord, we pray for people who have acquired a new disability. We know this can be a challenging time for them and their families, especially at Christmas time. We give thanks for our exceptional team of rehabilitation experts supporting people to recover and regain their independence. Amen.
Christmas Celebration Togetherness Tinsel
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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December
Why our work matters
People with disabilities often face challenges when transitioning from family life or residential care to living independently. They relish the freedom to make their own choices but need support to navigate some of the barriers that prevent a fully-inclusive society. Obstacles may include communication, transport and access to employment. These exist in both the physical and digital world. Our supported living services provide a nurturing environment for people to develop their skills and independence, giving them confidence and knowledge to make decisions about their future.
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Aaron + Art + Photography + Inspiration + Independence
Finding a community
Shaftesbury South East is supporting Aaron to live away from his family for the first time. It was a big step and staff have done a great job helping him adjust. Aaron is very creative and enjoys being able to express himself through art. He has independently joined art groups in the local area and had his artwork exhibited at a gallery and shopping centre. Aaron has also gained confidence by volunteering at a local café. He’s living the life he wants to live and is able to explore the world through different eyes since leaving home. We offer Aaron a stepping stone towards being fully independent, enabling him to feel safe and progress at his own pace. He is an inspiration to others.
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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January Let us pray
Lord, as we celebrate Epiphany, we give thanks for the nationwide Christian community supporting our work. We are grateful to those who meet weekly to sustain us in prayer. We give thanks for their faith and commitment. May 2027 be a happy year full of blessings. Amen.
Week 1 Dear Lord, we pray for staff who are taking on new responsibilities, as Team Leaders, Champions, Service Delivery Leads or Managers. Help them to persevere as they get to know their new roles. Help them to be leaders who are open, courageous, enabling and inclusive. Amen. * Written by a staff member
Week 2 Dear God, thank you for your presence in the disability community. You take on human form and experience the dependency on human care and kindness. We pray for all with complex disability and care needs. Keep us safe and help us live life to the full. Amen. *Written by a member of our prayer circle
Week 3 Lord, we pray for guidance for our managers and senior leadership team as they make decisions about how to best serve the people we support and make provision for the future of the charity. Amen.
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Shaftesbury Prayer Diary
January
Learning Community Inclusion Wellness
Week 4 Dear God, the stars shine bright, make us bright and brave too. May we sparkle this winter and be cared for by your Holy Spirit. Amen. *Written by a member of our prayer circle
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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January
Why our work matters
There are approximately 1.5m people with a learning disability in the UK*. Their inherent vulnerability puts them at greater risk of abuse. This may be physical, emotional, financial or even self-abuse. The best form of protection is to empower people with an understanding of safeguarding which is why Shaftesbury offers training opportunities to the people we support. *Source: Mencap
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Learning Together
Shaftesbury is leading the way by enabling support staff and people we support to complete training together side by side via our in-house Learning Academy. This is not standard practice in the sector. Care organisations typically meet mandatory training obligations for staff, but few commit to training people in their care who have disabilities. A handbook outlines all the learning opportunities available, including courses on safeguarding; understanding rights; preventing abuse; building and maintaining friendships; social media; employment and digital skills. Some of the courses have been produced in-house with input from people with lived experience of disability. Philip from Shaftesbury Brookside House in Edgware says: “I like learning and this was a different way to get involved with Shaftesbury. I would definitely recommend it to others. It’s not just something to do; it’s given me more understanding about what rights I have and about how to recognise control.”
Support
Your support means Shaftesbury can provide quality care that transforms people’s lives. Please visit www.shaftesburygroup.org/donate to donate today. Thank you. Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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February Let us pray
Lord, we pray for people supported by Shaftesbury to live independently. Grant them courage and resilience to overcome barriers they face in life. We pray they are treated compassionately by the communities they live in. Amen.
Week 1 Lord Jesus, thank you for the buildings we feel safe in; homes, colleges, day centres and offices. We pray for Shaftesbury staff who look after them, for the maintenance and domestic staff, and the health and safety team. Help us to include everybody and find ways to make space for the different adjustments we each need. Amen. *Written by a staff member
Week 2 Lord, thank you for all our donors and supporters. Through their generosity we can provide the best possible care for children, young people and adults with disabilities. We pray for sufficient funding to continue expanding our work to benefit as many people as possible. Amen.
Week 3 Heavenly Father, may you bless and keep all who live and work at Shaftesbury. Let your face shine upon us and grant us grace. Turn your loving gaze toward us, bringing comfort, strength, joy, and peace. Guide our hearts each day and surround us with your unfailing love. Amen. *Written by a person we support
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Father, we celebrate members of our Changes for the Future Forum who give invaluable feedback on our care services and champion the rights of people with disabilities. We pray they feel empowered by their involvement and feel supported to express what matters most to those they represent. Amen.
Independence Inclusion Courage Voice
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
February
Week 4
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February
Why our work matters
Research* shows that students with disabilities in the UK still face barriers that prevent them being educated equally with non-disabled people. The findings suggest that staff in mainstream education are inadequately trained in disability and inclusion, meaning reasonable adjustments are often not made. This leads to students at primary, secondary and university level having inconsistent support and highly variable experiences of education. It has been found that students with disabilities have a significantly better experience when when support is flexible and adaptable and their needs are taken seriously. *Source: GOV.UK: Disabled people's lived experience of education in the UK: an evidence review, January 2026
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Shaftesbury’s first shop
Millie’s Gifts & Garden shop has been opened at the Courtyard Craft Centre in Lytchett Minster, Dorset. This provides hands-on work experience for students at Shaftesbury Millie College as well as an opportunity to showcase their enterprise work. The shop stocks seasonal produce harvested from the college’s kitchen garden and plants grown in the nursery at its 350-acre site, near Poole. This includes homemade jams and chutneys made by students in catering sessions using produce grown on site. Crafts and artwork designed and created by students is also on sale as well as gifts and homeware. Students are involved in organising and displaying the stock and serving customers, working alongside staff to build their confidence and skills in a supportive and familiar environment.
Sep 2026 – Feb 2027
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Support
We want to support as many people with disabilities as we can in 2027 – and we need your help. Please donate to support our work – visit www.shaftesburygroup.org/donate. Thank you. Scan the QR code to donate
ShaftesburyGroupUK supporterservices@shaftesburygroup.org shaftesburygroup.org
0191 500 9176
Shaftesbury is the operating name of Livability which is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee in England and Wales. Charity No: 1116530 and Company No: 5967087. J166-26. iStock©p2/Philip Silverman