It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the death of our Patron, Ann Macfarlane OBE. Ann was a giant of the Independent Living Movement and one of the most influential disability rights campaigners of her generation. Her determination, leadership and vision helped transform the lives of disabled people across the United Kingdom, advancing the principles of choice, control, equality and independent living that remain at the heart of KCIL’s mission today.
Ann remained actively engaged in the causes she cared about throughout her life. Even in her later years, she continued to support disabled people’s rights, contribute to discussions on independent living, and offer guidance and encouragement to organisations and individuals across the disability movement.
As Patron of KCIL, Ann was far more than a figurehead. She remained actively involved in the organisation, attending Trustee and Board meetings and providing thoughtful advice, challenge and support. Her experience, wisdom and commitment to the values of independent living were invaluable to our work.
For many of us at KCIL, Ann was also a mentor and friend. Her guidance helped shape our organisation and strengthen our commitment to the values she spent her lifetime promoting. We will always be grateful for the time, wisdom and support she gave so freely.
Her passing is a tremendous loss to KCIL, to the disability rights movement and to all who knew her. Yet her legacy lives on in the freedoms, opportunities and rights that so many disabled people enjoy today because of her work and determination.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to those closest to Ann, her friends, colleagues and all those whose lives she touched.
From all the staff, Trustees and friends of KCIL thank you, Ann, for your leadership, your friendship, your wisdom and your unwavering commitment to a more equal world. You will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
Kingston Centre for Independent Living (KCIL)
