A Wiltshire charity that helps disabled people to live more independently has won £30,000 in a national awards scheme.

Wiltshire Centre for Independent Living (CIL) was one of ten winners of a GSK Impact Award out of more than 400 charities that applied.

The awards are run in partnership with The King’s Fund and in addition to the £30,000, winning organisations can access training, development and networking opportunities through a dedicated programme.

Wiltshire CIL, based in Couch Lane, Devizes, stood out for its approach in meeting the needs of disabled people. Seventy five per cent of its trustees are people living with a disability.

The charity supports independent living for those with learning difficulties, frailty of old age, mental health issues, physical and sensory impairments and long-term conditions.

Services include one-to-one help, peer mentoring, workshops, short courses and conferences.

The organisation is involved in issues including welfare reform, Independent Living Fund, Direct Payment support for disabled and older people and they also provide a home from hospital service.

Geraldine Bentley, director of Wiltshire CIL, said: “This is a massive achievement for Wiltshire CIL in a relatively short period of time, having only received recognised statutory funding since 2010.

"I am delighted that all the hard work and dedication of the staff and volunteer mentors has been recognised on such a huge platform as this award.

“We absolutely believe in the right of all disabled and older people to lead inclusive lives in their local community but people need the support and information to be able to do that.”

Lisa Weaks, third sector manager at The King’s Fund, said: “‘Service users are put at the heart of the work the centre does. It is a well-run organisation and has grown significantly in recent years.”

Wiltshire CIL will be recognised, along with other award winners, at a ceremony in the Science Museum in London on May 15. The overall winner, will receive a further £10,000 in funding.