History of Nuneaton and District Catholic Fellowship

The Nuneaton and District Catholic Fellowship (NDCF) is a National charity, which was originally founded as the Catholic Handicapped Children's Fellowship (CHCF) by Elizabeth Fitzroy in 1956. She recognised that the spiritual welfare of handicapped children, particularly those with mental health problems, as well as their families, have special needs within the Church.
Elizabeth succeeded in changing the attitudes which resulted in many handicapped children participating in the Mass, making their first communion and being confirmed.

Shortly after the CHCF was formed, Christopher Flavell was born. At birth he suffered severe brain damage. Christopher's father, Philip, contacted Elizabeth Fitzroy and one of the first local groups of the CHCF was set up in the parish of Our Lady of the Angels. The group received great support from surrounding parish - hence 'and district' is in its name.

When the CHCF had become well established in Nuneaton, many of the children were ready to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. The Archbishop agreed a 'special' confirmation service for these special children and Bishop Emery came to Our Lady's to administer the Sacrament; it was a wonderful and unique occasion.

As these children became adults and none was ever asked to leave the fellowship, the charity - national and local - changed its name, to justify funds being used for the benefit of adults.

Special Masses became a regular event and it was realised that one of the most important ways to help member families was to visit or 'keep in touch' and to pray for them. We feel that was should concentrate on the spiritual needs of our members as no other charity can help in that respect.
Social and fundraising events have been going on for years especially our annual
sponsored walk. The funds raised for:

Children and their parents to be sent on pilgrimage to Lourdes and, on one occasion, to Rome.

Special holidays for the children or financial assistance for holidays.

Special equipment when such funds were not available from other sources.

Our local NCF branch organises pilgrimages, trips, social events and many different activities for the disabled and their families.