Our Team
Meet Our Trustees
Meet the dedicated trustees steering Thrive Autism’s mission to support neurodivergent children, young people, and families across Norfolk and Waveney.
Chairman
Colin Lang MBE
I have worked within the community and charity sector for over 25 years and bring my skills, expertise and contacts to the Thrive Autism project/charity. Throughout these years I have been CEO to three Norfolk charities and held senior management posts with many others. Whilst CEO for Nelsons Journey I was able to raise one million pounds and project manage the bespoke Smiles House building which they are still using today. I plan to use those skills gained with that project to ensure that Thrive Autism builds a state-of-the-art building. I plan to make Thrive Autism the most spoken about charity in Norfolk to secure the funding and get the building up and running as soon as possible. I have two grandchildren that have autism and have seen the struggle it has been to secure what is needed to assist them with their day-to-day challenges. This gave me the idea of creating a central building in Norfolk that parents, carers and families can go to for recreation, support, training and advice without being passed from pillar to post and having hurdles put in the way.
Trustee
Barry (Baz) Ellis
I have a proven background in business operations at board level within both plc and SME companies and since providing operational consultancy support to local businesses. Now semi-retired I'm bringing my experience to Thrive Autism to strengthen the team and provide operational support to deliver the very best services and facilities to neurodiverse youngsters and their families. I'm very much a people person and feel privileged to have this opportunity to work alongside such an experienced team in the SEN charity sector.
Trustee
Brenda Fraser Newstead
I am a retired Special Needs Deputy Head and class teacher with a specialism in Autism, trained in TEACCH, PECS, Makaton and in developing strategies to work with children with Behavioural Difficulties. I have a strong background in Physical Education and have used this qualification to help lead county Special Education Ski Adventures to Italy and Austria. Similarly I have led on Outdoor Adventure Activity which includes Archery, Abseiling, Camping, Canoeing, Caving, Hill walking etc. I feel very strongly that all children, including and especially Neurodivergent young people, should have full and active life support system and education which prepares them for a productive, full and rewarding work life.
Trustee
Jake Lewis-Smith
As a father of two autistic children, I know the challenges of advocating for their needs and navigating the services that are available in Norfolk, which is what makes me so passionate about the Thrive Autism project. In my work I support charities and NHS Trusts, both locally and nationally, to secure funding for services and capital investment, drawing on my background in NHS business development.
Trustee
Simon Francis
Over a 31-year career with the same Norwich company I worked in all departments, culminating in owning and exiting the business in 2015. Now almost retired I thrive on being able to work in a team to solve problems and help others. I am proud to join Thrive Autism to provide support any way I can, especially in my key experience areas of property and business.
Trustee
Hugo Stevenson
Hugo was born and raised in Suffolk, but feels Norfolk is his spiritual home, and has lived here for over 20 years. In 1996, he started his career in London, in the fine art and antiques world as a specialist in 18th and 19th Century English watercolours and drawings. In Norfolk, he has worked in hospitality, been the Regional Fundraiser for Marie Curie, and is a director of Stevenson Consulting PR and Marketing Agency. Hugo's mother died in St Nicholas Hospice in Bury St Edmunds, which inspired his commitment to join the Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity in 2018 to help launch the campaign to build the new Priscilla Bacon Lodge in Norwich. After successfully raising £14.3m and completing the build of the new hospice, Hugo remains Head of Fundraising and Communications for the Charity.
Want to Get Involved?
As a new charity, we’ve got a long way to go and we need your help! Whether it’s as a Trustee, an Ambassador spreading the message of Thrive Autism, a parent who would like to Volunteer, or a professional in the field who can support with guidance and advice, you’re all very welcome.
Get In Touch