“Everything we have achieved has been driven by our shared commitment to enabling people with learning disabilities and autistic people to live fulfilling, independent and meaningful lives." It was Franklin who spearheaded the merger of Kisharon and Langdon – established learning disability charities – in 2023. He had joined Kisharon ten years earlier, before becoming CEO in 2018 and group CEO after the creation of Kisharon Langdon. Under his leadership, Kisharon Langdon has become a £25 million organisation with stellar ratings and a record £4.6 million raised in the last year. Philip Goldberg, co-chair of Kisharon Langdon, said: "We are absolutely thrilled that Richard has been recognised on a national stage.