Rooprai Spinal Trust: continuing to make a difference together

April 2, 2026

I’m delighted to share this latest update on our partnership with Exchange Chambers and the life-changing impact it continues to deliver.

Back in November, we had a fantastic night at Exchange’s Charity Ball in Manchester. It was a great chance for us to showcase how our partnership is making a difference, meet some wonderful people, raise an incredible £21,000, let our hair down and, of course, listen to the dulcet tones of MC and auctioneer Nick Buckley, a genial host. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who organised and supported the evening. This remarkable sum has already been put to work, helping paralysed individuals access life-changing physiotherapy.

2026

The start of the year is always a busy time for our scholarship programme. Alongside continuing to support those already involved, we are delighted to welcome a growing number of new participants. Some have been living with their injuries for some time and are seeking support to begin training and look after their bodies, while many others are newly injured and are looking for expert guidance as they navigate a daunting new world.

We currently work with five specialist neuro-physiotherapy centres across England. So far in 2026, we have welcomed more than 20 new individuals through their doors, with many more hoping to start in the spring.

As a small, voluntary charity, one of our greatest challenges is ensuring that our resources reach as many suitable beneficiaries as possible. The continued support from Exchange Chambers, alongside collaboration with other charities, enables us to extend our reach and provide vital support to even more people than ever before.

Issy

In March, Marrianne and I met with members of the Exchange Chambers team at The Rehab Physio. As one of our trusted physio partners, it was a fantastic opportunity for the Exchange team to see first-hand the work being done, experience some of the incredible technology and meet individuals who are directly benefiting from our partnership.

Issy, featured in the photos, had recently qualified as a physiotherapist when an accident left her with a spinal cord injury. Friendly, hardworking and full of character, she speaks openly about her journey and the impact our support has had on her rehabilitation.

Issy’s injury is unusual in that it affects her upper limbs rather than her lower extremities, resulting in paralysis in one arm and reduced function in both arms and hands. Despite these challenges, she continues to approach her recovery with determination and positivity. We are all hopeful that, with time, dedication and ongoing physiotherapy, Issy will return to work in the profession she loves. Watch this space.

It’s not over!

I’ll close this update with some unexpected but truly fantastic news: Exchange Chambers has extended our partnership for an additional year.

During our visit to the North West, Chief Executive Jonathan I’Anson kindly confirmed this in person. This continued support allows us to plan with confidence, reach more people and make an even greater impact.

I look forward to sharing our next update and, of course, to enjoying another Exchange Charity Ball in November. Thank you once again to everyone at Exchange for believing in and supporting our work.

Andy Uttridge, co-founder, Rooprai Spinal Trust

To see some photo updates, please view here.