An evening with Stephen Unwin
Join us for a moving and thought-provoking evening with acclaimed theatre director, author, and former Chair of Kids, Stephen Unwin, as he shares insights from his powerful new book: Beautiful Lives: How We Got Learning Disabilities So Wrong.
Details
Stephen’s new book, Beautiful Lives: How We Got Learning Disabilities So Wrong, is a deeply personal and urgent call to rethink how society treats people with learning disabilities – an issue close to Stephen’s heart as a father and advocate.
For much of history, people with learning disabilities have been dismissed, excluded, and seen as fundamentally different. While progress has been made, people with learning disabilities are still treated as fundamentally different.
In Beautiful Lives, Stephen Unwin – a father to a son with severe learning disabilities – weaves history, love, and lived experience into a powerful call for a better future.
This book comes at a crucial time, with major reforms to England’s SEND system expected later this year. As journalist John Harris wrote in The Guardian: “The present and future will only be different if we finally understand the past.”
So let’s unite and speak up! Because when the world says we can’t, Kids say we can.
Evening schedule
The evening will feature a keynote talk by Stephen, a live Q&A session hosted by Cathy Newman, and a chance to buy a copy of Beautiful Lives and have it signed by Stephen himself.
Whether you’re a parent, carer, educator, professional, or simply passionate about inclusion, this is an evening not to be missed.
Date:
Tuesday 14th October 2025
Time:
6.00pm – 8.00pm
Location:
Katten, Paternoster House, 65 St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AB
Click here for accessibility and travel details.
Donation:
The suggested donation for this exclusive event is £30.
By attending this event you will be helping Kids support 22,000 disabled children, young people and families every year – creating a world where all kinds of kids have all kinds of opportunities.
Q&A session hosted by Cathy Newman
With nearly 30 years of experience in journalism, from newspapers to becoming the first female main presenter of Channel 4 News, Cathy brings her passion and dedication to every story.
Book your place
If you would like to attend, please click the ‘book here’ button below to complete the booking form.
Accessibility & travel details
Accessibility:
The building is fully accessible. To ensure a smooth and welcoming experience, please let us know if you need any accessibility accommodations. You can email events@kids.org.uk.
Closest tube stations:
– St Paul’s Underground Station (Central Line)
Distance: ~270 metres (~3 min walk)
Exit: Use the exit for St Paul’s Cathedral
– City Thameslink Station (National Rail)
Distance: ~300 metres (~4 min walk)
– Blackfriars Station (District & Circle Lines + National Rail)
Distance: ~500 metres (~7 min walk)
Nearest bus stops:
– St Paul’s Churchyard (Stop SH)
Located directly outside the Cathedral
Served by routes: 15, 17, 26, 76, N15, N21, N26, N199, N550, N551
Live arrivals and route info: TfL Bus Stop Info
– St Paul’s Cathedral (Stop SK)
Also very close, used by sightseeing and regular buses
Nearest car parks:
– Baynard House Car Park
Address: Queen Victoria Street
Distance: ~400 metres (~6 min walk)
Public access: Yes
Best for: Standard vehicles, short stays
– London Wall Car Park
Distance: ~10 min walk
Secure underground parking
Rates: Approx £5/hour
– JustPark Options
Offers pre-bookable spaces nearby including private driveways
Prices from £2.50/hour or £9/day
Booking: JustPark near St Paul’s
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