In 1951 concerned parents of children with disabilities set up this charity. On the 15th October 1951 The Plymouth and South West Devon Spastic Association was formed.
Throughout the 1950’s, 60’s, 70s and 80s, the charity bought and managed residential and day centres in Plymouth. In the 1990s a respite centre was built adjacent to the Day Centre at Plymstock.

In 1999, the Executive Committee made two significant decisions.

1. To change the charities name to Independence South West
2. To invest over £100,000 on major improvements to the Day and Respite Centres at Plymstock.

CHARITY COMMISSION REPORT
On July 4th 2002 the Charity Commission visited Independence South West to carry out a review.