Entrepreneur and philanthropist John Caudwell established the Life-Changers Circle to bring together like-minded people committed to supporting those most in need. We find out more

Words: Selma Day

Founded in 2000 by entrepreneur, business leader and philanthropist John Caudwell, Caudwell Children has grown over the past 26 years into a leading UK charity dedicated to supporting disabled and neurodivergent children and their families. All donations directly fund practical and emotional services, which have been carefully developed with the direct input of children and families and include autism assessments, specialist equipment and funding, family support sessions and occupational therapy.

The charity's vision is a world where every disabled and neurodivergent child has the opportunity, support and freedom to realise their potential. Caudwell Children celebrates the talents and perspectives that disabled and neurodivergent children bring to society, supporting and empowering them to help them achieve their dreams.

Building on the work of Caudwell Children and Caudwell Youth, which was launched in 2022 to empower at-risk young people to shape their own future through mentoring and youth-led support, John established the prestigious Life-Changers Circle (LCC) “to bring together a dedicated group of philanthropists who share a deep commitment to supporting those most in need in our society”. 

“It was important to me to create a community of individuals who are not only generous, but genuinely passionate about improving the lives of young people through the work of Caudwell Children and Caudwell Youth,” he says. The LCC is a growing, international network of like-minded philanthropists and humanitarians with a shared vision of giving back. Each member has promised to donate ÂŁ1 million over 10 years to support disabled and neurodivergent children and their families.

But this unique circle isn't only a financial mechanism. As John points out: “The circle's members have also brought extraordinary value to the charity through their insight, advocacy and unwavering belief in our mission. Their involvement strengthens our work and extends our impact far beyond fundraising alone.” Built on philanthropy and friendship, it's a core community of trusted supporters who join John for charity events – including the spectacular London and Monaco Butterfly Balls – bringing their own networks into the fold.

“On a personal level, I feel incredibly fortunate,” says John. “These are like-minded individuals who share my values and, over time, many have become close friends.”There is a strong sense of camaraderie. We have built something that feels more like a family, and we have shared many memorable and joyful moments together along the way”

Among the LCC members are Mayfair residents and philanthropists Avnish and Anita Goyal, who run their own Goyal Foundation. Joining the Life-Changers Circle with my husband Avnish has allowed us to give back in powerful and meaningful ways,” says Anita. “It has not only made a difference in young people's lives, but it has connected us with incredible philanthropists like John Caudwell and Modesta [John's partner] and many more. This has enriched our own journey in ways we never imagined.”

Membership of the Life-Changers Circle is strictly by invitation only. To find out more, contact Jo-Ann D'Costa-Manuel by emailing jo@caudwell.com This year's Butterfly Ball takes place at The Dorchester on June 18.

To find out more about the event, please contact butterflyball@caudwellchildren.com or visit caudwellchildren.com/event/butterfly-ball-london