RCV started with one man's vision.  This man was Leonard Cheshire (pictured, alongside his wife Sue Ryder).  Leonard Cheshire had many interests, but was keen to ensure that people were not precluded from community life and leisure opportunities purely because of a physical disability.

Leonard Cheshire recognised that an individual's personal and practical needs were often very well catered for by various agencies, but little, if anything, was readily available which would enable people with a physical disability to pursue hobbies or interests of their choice.

Alongside our very first Co-ordinator, Sylvia Wear, who went on to become the organisation's CEO from 2005-2009, Leonard Cheshire's vision became a reality in 1986.  With the support of trained volunteers, RCV's work of matching like minded volunteers with Members (adultswith a physical disability) took flight. Starting initially in Wallingford, South Oxfordshire, word about our work spread quickly, and requests for RCV's support in neighbouring areas began to increase.  Over a period of ten years, the charity set up ten further projects in Oxfordshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire.

Whilst Leonard Cheshire's vision has succeeded him, his work lives on.  RCV currently spans seven counties of England, and will continue to grow in the years to reflect the ongoing need for individuals to live full and rewarding lives, which includes leisure and learning activities.