About Us Who We Are Who Are Our Senior Staff? Kate Hancock - Chief Executive Officer I am very proud to be the Chief Executive Officer of Autism Anglia. Having worked for the Charity since early 2013, I have an incredible passion to help lead, inspire and motivate our incredible staff team in order that we continue to provide the highest quality services for the autistic community. I have a varied professional background; public and private sector roles have provided me with a diverse skill set which has enabled me to be fortunate enough to lead the Charity. Having worked for South Yorkshire Police for 14 years then Essex Police for 2, I have always had a sense of justice. I am very proud of my routes, Mum of two, youngest of five, born and raised in Sheffield South Yorkshire. I moved to Essex 13 years ago and really love living here. I am lucky to have such an amazing family with wonderful parents, who both instilled in me the importance of caring and helping others in order to help them thrive. This makes me love my job so much and I will do everything I can to ensure the Charity continues to go from strength to strength, helping lead the way in making positive differences to all the pupils and people we support. Rachel Hill - Director of Adult Services I joined Autism Anglia in October 2018 as Director of Adult Services and Nominated Individual. I am passionate about social care, and as a Social Work professional, I have experience in working with individuals across the life span, families, groups and in community support development, having worked within National Charity and Statutory Service sectors. Recently, I've been appointed as Autism Anglia's safeguarding lead as well as supporting our Chief Executive with jointly overseeing our Communications and Marketing Service. I am so proud of working alongside such a great team of people and being part of Autism Anglia’s ethos to make change and support people in living a great life. When I'm not busy with work you can find me in the garden or out kayaking! Louise Parkinson - Head Teacher at Doucecroft School I bring over 20 years of experience in Education as well as a background in Drama and Community Arts work. I have worked in mainstream and special education, both in England and overseas, and have a real passion for making learning fun and challenging all pupils to be their very best. I believe that by building positive relationships with pupils and parents, schools can be safe places where young people can thrive. I love working in a school where you never know what magical moment is coming next, we have to remove the barriers and find ways we can all achieve together. When describing me, pupils will usually say: “she laughs, and she sings.” Aside from my work with Autism Anglia I enjoy spending time with my two children, going on adventures and spending time growing things in the garden. Ben Palmer – Finance Director Helping to support and encourage others to achieve their potential/aspirations has been a running theme throughout my adult life. Having organised and contributed to children’s causes, in addition to being a Trustee for local primary schools, the possibility to join the team at Autism Anglia seeking to maximise the impact the organisation can achieve felt like a natural step for a cause that is close to my heart. I originally qualified in finance in a practice background. I have been privileged to work in a number of people-oriented businesses, developing and delivering successful teams and systems. I genuinely love working in finance and within wider organisations to unlock potential and find new ways to improve outcomes. Away from work I have two wonderful daughters, who certainly keep my wife and I fully occupied. I am a keen fan of most sports and have a never-ending list of home projects to keep me entertained.