About Us

Our story

The John Graham Centre was opened in 2004 by the Cook family to fill a gap they saw in provision for adults with learning disabilities in their area of Kent.

Their daughter, Isabel Cook and two other young adults in their care who all have Downs Syndrome, were looking for an interesting and stimulating centre to attend daily. They had looked at or attended available services locally, but without success.

At the time, the Cooks had a small farm shop, some land, a couple of stables and a few farm animals. So after considerable research and visiting many other day services, they decided to open their own centre – a small farming day service for adults who have a learning disability.

Our Vision

So, The John Graham Centre began. Initially it was just one room in the farmhouse, an outbuilding for clothing/boots, 2 stables and a few animals, But with unwavering enthusiasm and commitment they built their vision of a happy, stimulating and motivating service.

They have been helping adults with a learning disability to learn and achieve together ever since. Enabling each person to be able to develop to their maximum potential in a fun and supportive environment.

Our Aim

Our aim ‘Learning and Achieving together’. The centre provides a wealth of opportunities for students, whatever their level of ability, to develop, learn and achieve their goals. With many different activities ranging from farm and animal work to dance and drama, and plenty of trips and outings too, the John Graham Centre is a unique setting where students can make friends, discover new skills and have lots of fun.

The John Graham Centre management work with Social Services Care Managers, Health Professionals, and all other professional and voluntary organisations in the promotion of the well-being of all. All our staff are DBS Enhanced checked and attend/complete a robust training programme of 21 core training courses.