Remembering Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

The late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was our Patron for more than 40 years. Here we look back at some key moments.

Perhaps this shining example of what a human being can achieve in a lifetime of dedication can inspire in the rest of us a belief in our own capacity to help others.

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II recognising our founder in her 1992 Christmas Speach

June 1981

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh attended an evening reception at our international week conference in the Tara Hotel, Kensington. This event was held as part of the International Year of Disabled People.

The Queen speaking receiving a bouquet from a young girl in a wheelchair
Copyright: Norman Potter

July 1987

After five years of fundraising and renovation, The Queen opened our hotel for disabled people at Park House, Sandringham. We had originally been offered the use of Park House on the Sandringham Estate in 1982.

Queen chatting to Leonard at Park House

July 1990

The Queen visited our Mayfield House in Edinburgh. Mayfield House was our first service in Scotland.

The Queen holding a bouquet of flowers talking to staff and resident at Mayfield House in Edingburgh

March 1992

Her Majesty opened our Oakwood service. Oakwood is the first Acquired Brain Injury service in Stockport.

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, speaking to a group of men in suits at the opening of Oakwood care home

January 1996

The Queen gave the closing address at the UK Foundation National Conference at Ascot Racecourse. She told delegates that the development of Homes and Services and their benefits to people with disabilities was “a tribute to a man with firm determination and confidence in the human spirit”.

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, speaking to a group of disabled people at Ascot

October 2008

The Queen attended a reception at St. James’s Palace to mark our  60th anniversary. She met with guests from the UK and across the world.

The Queen at St James Palace celebrating Leonard Cheshire's 60th anniversary

November 2008

Her Majesty opened our Agnes Court service in Banbury, Oxfordshire.

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, speaking to a resident at Agnes Court

June 2015

Three young disabled campaigners from our Young Voices project become some of the first ever to receive a prestigious Queen’s Young Leader Award. They were presented with the award by The Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Yaseen Edoo meeting The Queen at Buckingham Palace

Share your messages of condolence

We mourn with the world at the loss of such an inspirational, caring, and dedicated leader. We send our heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty’s family and friends.

An official online book of condolence has been set up if you would like to pass on your messages.

Sign the official online book of condolence