About The Disability Resource Centre
Free, confidential and independent advice for disabled people, carers and families. We empower people to live independently with dignity and choice.
Our Story
The Disability Resource Centre (DRC) has been a cornerstone of support for disabled people, carers and families across Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes for over 30 years.
Founded with the belief that everyone deserves to live independently with dignity and choice, we provide free, confidential and independent advice on benefits, housing, debt, employment and much more.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader, registered on the UK Register of Learning Providers (UKPRN 10054081), and a registered charity (No. 1041712).
Get Help Now
Our Mission & Values
Everything we do is guided by our commitment to empowering people and building a more inclusive community.
Independence
Empowering people to make their own choices and live life on their own terms with the right support.
Inclusion
Creating welcoming spaces where everyone is valued, respected and able to participate fully in their community.
Trust
Delivering confidential, impartial advice that people can rely on — always acting in the best interests of those we serve.
Community
Working together with local partners, volunteers and supporters to strengthen the communities we serve across the region.
Excellence
Continuously improving our services and training to deliver the highest quality support and outcomes for our clients.
Wellbeing
Promoting holistic wellbeing through our services, events and the Wellbeing Hub — supporting mind, body and community.
Key Facts
A snapshot of the impact we make across our communities every year.
Meet the Team
Led by a passionate team dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of disabled people and carers.
Anne Bland
CEO
Jill Pick
Chair of the Board of Trustees
Sandra Brown
Vice Chair
Chelsea Smith
Operations ManagerOur History
Over three decades of championing independence, inclusion and community across Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes.
The Beginning
The concept of a local resource centre is established by local disabled people. Partnerships are formed with the local health authority and community trust. A project group is formed.
Charity Founded
Charity created and first employees hired. Poynters House opens and welcomes first services and tenants. Information & Equipment services begin.
Royal Opening
Poynters House officially opened by HRH The Duchess of Gloucester. The DRC partnership model is replicated across the country, setting a national benchmark.
Expanding Reach
Bedford office opens. Direct Payments Support Service commences. NHS facility, Independence Square, opens. Services expanded to include Direct Payments Support.
National Recognition
The DRC receives a national HSJ Award commendation for multi-agency partnership working — recognised as a leading example of collaborative care across the UK.
Community Outreach
Information Outreach Service introduced. Lord Howland (later The Duke of Bedford) becomes Patron. Services grow to include Information, Equipment, Direct Payments Support and Outreach.
Growing Services
First BBC local radio interview. Direct Payments Support Service expands. Transport Matters project commences, helping disabled people access transport across the region.
Best Practice
Milton Keynes Direct Payment Support Service commences. Recognised by the Department of Health as providing best practice. First Information Guide published.
New Facilities
Woburn Suite conference facilities open. The DRC website launches. Wins local Equality and Diversity Training award — cementing our role as a community anchor.
Enterprise Hub
Marsh Farm Advice Service commences. Enterprise Hub opened by The Duke of Bedford. The DRC becomes a Department of Health National User-Led Action and Learning site.
Northamptonshire CIL
Northamptonshire Centre for Independent Living established in Corby and Northampton, extending our support to a new county and reaching more disabled people and carers.
Paralympic Ambassadors
The DRC becomes a Paralympic Ambassador, leading on Paralympic Flame events throughout Bedfordshire and Luton — celebrating disability, sport and community pride.
LuDun Room Opens
LuDun room opened by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. Health, Learning and Work team created. First Scouts welcomed for Disability Awareness badge sessions.
21 Years Strong
The DRC celebrates 21 years of service. AdviceCentral piloted. Service users receive Community Learners Award. Continuing to grow, innovate and champion independence.