Steve Pryor the Chair of the Community Fund of the Harpenden Trust was delighted to be invited to the unveiling of the first blue plaque in Harpenden. The blue plaque was installed to acknowledge the tremendous work carried out by Harpenden resident Judy Fryd. Judy had a daughter who suffered from learning disabilities and in 1946 founded an association that would provide help for children suffering from the same problems as her daughter. This association became the Royal Mencap Society and was based at Lucy Fryd's home in Westfield Avenue. The charity grew quickly to be a national movement and remains one of Britain's leading charities for people with learning disabilities. In 1959 she co-founded Harpenden Mencap with eight other parents creating the supportive community that continues to thrive today. Her wonderful work was acknowledged with an MBE in 1967 and CBE in 1996 before passing away in 2000 aged 90.
The Community Fund of the Harpenden Trust have supported Harpenden Mencap in provision of its support which currently is provided to 50 direct recipients plus approximately 100 family members who also benefit from the help provided. Of these people 33 are supported in properties owned by the charity and the remainder receive support in their own homes. In addition health, leisure and employment services are provided enabling people to be active citizens within the local community.
It is fantastic to see the blue plaque serving as a permanent tribute to the founder of the charity on a residential avenue in Harpenden marking its 80th anniversary and it is hoped that Harpenden residents can take great pride in Judy Fryd's achievements at the heart of their community.
11 March 2026
