Our Team

We are so fortunate to have a wonderful team of committed staff. Many of our staff have lived experience of ADHD/Autism; all of them are skilled, knowledgeable and compassionate, and look forward to working with you. Please click on any of the pictures to find out a little more about each person on the team.

Senior Leadership Team

Kay D'Cruz

Chief Executive Officer

Kay D'Cruz

Chief Executive Officer

Hi, I’m Kay, very proud CEO at CAAS. I have a background in Finance and Operations and joined CAAS from Bliss, the national charity for sick and premature babies. There I was responsible for finance, controls, and risk management, HR, IT, digital, facilities, and contract relationships. I also played a key role in the development of operational, fundraising, and financial strategies and in the annual planning process. I used to work for CAAS as our financial controller, and I am a qualified accountant.

I am delighted to be re-joining CAAS as it embarks on the next stage of its strategy, which aims to allow CAAS to build on its reputation for quality services whilst growing in a sustainable way. It is such a privilege to work with the talented staff, volunteers and supporters who over the last 25 years have had such a positive impact on ADHD and Autistic individuals and their families across North West London.

Please do get in touch to tell me about how we have helped you in the past, or what more we can do at CAAS to make a difference in the future.

I love to be busy, which with 3 young daughters is easy to achieve! I also enjoy cheesy jokes, a good novel and nice wine.

Email:kay@adhdandautism.org

Julie Gaynor

Director of Services

Julie Gaynor

Director of Services

Hi, I'm Julie, and I am the Director of Services at CAAS. My role is to ensure that our services are developed in line with our strategy, co-produced and meet our service users' needs. I joined CAAS in January 2025.

I have worked in service provision in the charity sector for over 20 years. I previously worked at the Multiple Sclerosis Society as Head of Services for several years. I have a background in psychology, mental health and am a qualified trainer and counsellor. I am passionate about services, co-production and the differences the right services can make to people’s lives. If you have any feedback about our services or ideas about services, please do come and talk to me or send me an email.

Outside of work, I live in North London, with my husband and two children, one of whom is autistic and was diagnosed at the age of 6. I love travelling, watching films and doing Pilates. You will find me in the CAAS office most days and if you do see me, please do come and talk to me about anything services related or ask me where I went on holiday last.

Email:julie@adhdandautism.org

Rebecca Murphy

Finance Director

Rebecca Murphy

Finance Director

I’m Rebecca Murphy, the Financial Controller at CAAS. I joined in June 2019 and I’m responsible for ensuring all the finances run smoothly! I am a CIMA qualified accountant with over 20 years’ experience, and previously worked in large commercial organisations. Here at CAAS I really love being part of a fantastic team who work really hard to deliver important services to our clients. Outside of work, I have two young children that keep me busy! My daughter was diagnosed with Autism at a young age and has learning disabilities, so being part of this organisation is really important to me in supporting people going through similar issues. I became a member of CAAS when I needed help and support with my daughter’s diagnosis so I know first-hand how important our services are. If you meet me at the centre, please feel free to ask me anything or tell me your story, as it’s really nice to know individuals’ stories and how we can help.

Email:rebecca@adhdandautism.org

Management Team

Therese Glynn

Head of Client Programmes

Therese Glynn

Head of Client Programmes

Hi, I’m Therese. I’ve been involved since 1998 when my son was diagnosed with ADHD aged six. The lack of services and support for parents were the driving force behind my involvement with the charity. I am the Head of Client Programmes, managing the business, services and development of the charity. Previously I have spent many years working in hotel and event management. I trained through OCN as Parenting Facilitator, along with Middlesex University and the Trust for Adolescence in providing support to parents. I have since developed the parenting support at CAAS to be in line with the requirements of NICE guidelines on ADHD. I am also a trained ADHD/ASC Specialist Coach and PTLLS trainer for Adult Education. I recently completed my “WhyTry” youth programme, the qualification to deliver training to professionals. I am on the Editorial board for ADDISS magazine and am involved in supporting other groups setting up services for ADHD across London. When not busy working, I love walking and dancing, travelling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Email:adhd@adhdandautism.org

Blaise McDonald

Youth Services Manager

Blaise McDonald

Youth Services Manager

My name is Blaise McDonald and my role at CAAS is Youth Services Manager. My background is in Family Support and Youth Work and I’m a trained Parenting Facilitator. I’ve worked here for nearly 7 years now and absolutely love my job! You’ll usually find me in the Youth Office or out and about in local schools or colleges meeting with staff, delivering training or supporting young people. I oversee all the youth groups and courses here including Girls’ Group, Social Group, Film Group, Why Try and CALMS. I also oversee our fantastic Living With ADHD and Autism courses. We are fortunate enough to have a great group of facilitators to deliver this course in the centre and online. As the Manager of the Youth Services please feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions about our various projects or would like to refer your family into our team for personalised support. As I’ve got two very bubbly and energetic daughters keeping me on my toes outside of the office I work term time only but there’s always a member of the team who can help during the holidays. If you see me around the office feel free to ask me about the work we do in the Youth Team.

Email:blaise@adhdandautism.org

Karen Crocker

Family Services Manager and Youth Worker

Karen Crocker

Family Services Manager and Youth Worker

I first met the team at CAAS as a parent over 14 years ago. I was amazed by their warmth and understanding. The information and support was life-changing for my family. My training and background is in psychology and therapeutic counselling. Before I joined the CAAS team I worked for several charities as a counsellor, a support worker, and a keyworker. I still offer private work as a therapeutic counsellor, which balances well with my role at CAAS as Family Services Manager. Since joining CAAS I completed the Counselling Teenagers Certificate at the Institute of Art Therapy. I enjoy my 1-2-1 and group work with young people through the Youth Team. I’m also privileged to work with some of the adult groups and projects. At CAAS there is always an opportunity to learn and develop my skills and knowledge, and it’s a privilege to support our amazing and dedicated Family Support team. When I’m not working I love walking, swimming and spending time with my family. If you see me at the centre, please say hi and ask me about how our Family Support team can work with your family.

Email:karen@adhdandautism.org

Helen Fleetwood

Adult Services Manager

Helen Fleetwood

Adult Services Manager

I’ve been involved in the services for Autism in Harrow since 2005, when I joined the former National Autistic Society’s Harrow Branch (NASH) and became the Branch Officer in 2006, after my own child’s diagnosis of Autism in 2003. I knew I wanted to become involved in improving the services, not just for my child, but for all autistic people. Over the years I have maintained several roles within the organisation. For the last decade, I have been a trustee while developing my training skills to deliver some of the courses and training for CAAS, until I was able to accept a full-time role within the organisation to provide the Autistic Adult Services. I now spend my time working with the autistic adults that attend CAAS for support via a variety of means and mediums. I facilitate monthly social and therapeutic groups, hold weekly one to one sessions, develop new programs of support and roll them out. I have a particular love for the gaming group that I have been desperate to get started for over 10 years. I particularly enjoy delivering training to schools, parents, professionals and employers to help them understand Autism and broaden their knowledge.

Email:helen@adhdandautism.org

Staff

Tracy Muschamp

Family Support Team Lead

Tracy Muschamp

Family Support Team Lead

Hi, I’m Tracy and I joined CAAS in January 2025 as Family Services Team Lead. I have a background in providing services to children and families in both the statutory and voluntary sectors and am a trained parenting group facilitator. Prior to joining CAAS I spent over 19 years working for a small charity which provided practical and emotional support to families with children 0-13yrs, through volunteer support, outreach, parenting courses and children’s groups. I held various roles there, starting as a Family Support Worker, and most recently as Director of Services for five years. After leaving this role, I took a career break during which I spent some time travelling. I am delighted to join the amazing team at CAAS and have the opportunity to further develop my knowledge and skills.

In my spare time I love spending time with family and friends, running, walking, holidays and theatre. If you see me at the centre, please say hello and ask me about my travels or what show I have seen recently.

Email:tracy@adhdandautism.org

Carla Aboorashtchi

Family Support Worker

Carla Aboorashtchi

Family Support Worker

I started working at CAAS in 2022 as a creche worker and have now moved into a family support worker role. I love working at CAAS; we have a great team who I learn so much from. I get to meet wonderful people of all ages. My job role involves supporting families, facilitating our drop-in sessions with the team, delivering training opportunities and leading on CAAS projects. I have worked in education for over 20 years with children. I’ve specialised in the early years and am extremely passionate about children’s learning and development. I have been very lucky to work within the local community, supporting families. I love to read, and I will try anything to do with arts and crafts. I enjoy being with my friends and family, and I have 2 daughters who keep me very busy. I absolutely love netball and volunteer to help at a local primary school each week. If you meet me at the centre, why don’t you ask me about me about my latest read? I always carry a book with me wherever I go. I love to hear book recommendations too!

Email:carla@adhdandautism.org

Leigh Andrews

Family Support Worker

Leigh Andrews

Family Support Worker

Email:leigh@adhdandautism.org

Vicky Egan

Sleep Advisor & Family Support Worker

Vicky Egan

Sleep Advisor & Family Support Worker

Hi, I’m Vicky and I work in the creche. I have my NVQ level 3 in Early Years Care and Education. I have over 18 years experience working with children with varied needs. I’m also the Sleep Advisor at CAAS. I have my OCN Level 6 in Holistic Sleep. I have professional and personal experiences and have supported children and their families for over 10 years. My work at CAAS is highly rewarding and I look forward to meeting new families.

Email:vicky@adhdandautism.org

Sandra Bolger

Family Support Worker

Sandra Bolger

Family Support Worker

Hi, I'm Sandra and I'm a family support worker at CAAS. I feel very fortunate to be part of such a welcoming, caring and dedicated organisation.

I am a qualified primary school teacher and I have worked in a local primary school for over 20 years. Although I have worked with a wide range of age groups, I specialise in Early Years. I particularly enjoy facilitating role-play and creative opportunities, where children are given a fun space to develop their language and social skills, while enhancing their sense of self. I enjoy working with children, having volunteered for many years as an assistant leader in Rainbows, and for other community based groups.

I like to spend my free time catching up with friends and family over a cup of coffee. I have three adorable dogs, and my two daughters and I enjoy taking them on long walks at the weekend. However, our dogs don't like the rain, so on a rainy day, I love to snuggle up on the sofa with them, watching an old black and white film. If you meet me in the centre, please chat to me about your pets and the films that you enjoy.

Email:sandra@adhdandautism.org

Sarah Haynes

Family Team Support Officer

Sarah Haynes

Family Team Support Officer

I have been involved with CAAS since my child was diagnosed with autism 13 years ago. I now work for CAAS as a Support Worker for the Adult Team, Youth Team, and Family Support Team. If you see me at the Centre, come and say hello and let me know if you have any questions about how we can work with you or your family. I am also a qualified Nutritional Therapist and have completed my Level 3 Counselling Skills.

Email:sarah@adhdandautism.org

Niloofur Italia

Family Support Worker

Niloofur Italia

Family Support Worker

My involvement with CAAS started almost six years ago, supporting with drop-ins and later co-facilitating courses for parents. I have always found warmth and compassion amongst the family at CAAS. My training and background are as a teacher for children with learning disabilities and autism. I have a masters in autism and later secured Autism Accreditation for the school. My area of interest is supporting children to manage their behaviour when their communication skills are not as developed. I joined CAAS in 2022 as a family support worker. I am passionate about my work with families and young people and learn a great deal from every one of them. When I’m not at work, I relax with cooking and baking, but most enjoy being with family and friends. I hope to meet you at the centre soon.

Email:niloofur@adhdandautism.org

Jennifer Lancaster

Childcare Assistant

Jennifer Lancaster

Childcare Assistant

Hello, I’m Jen, and I work in the creche. I have a BTEC National Diploma in Early Years (Level 3) and have over 20 years experience in Childcare working with children with varied needs. I really enjoyed my SENCO role at a previous job and love that I can use my skills here at CAAS. It is very rewarding and lovely to support so many families. When I'm not at CAAS, I am a breastfeeding support worker at Hillingdon Hospital and have a Homeware Business. I am a mum to a 6 year old but any spare time I have left I use reading, cooking and doing various crafts.

Email:creche@adhdandautism.org

Amy King

Childcare Assistant

Amy King

Childcare Assistant

Hello! I’m Amy and I am a Childcare Assistant in the Creche at CAAS. I have a PGCE in Primary Education and have 16 years of teaching experience in the Early Years and KS1. During my time in School, I worked with and supported children with varying needs and I am so pleased that I can use this experience to support children and families using the creche service.

I am a mum of 3 which keeps me very busy! When I get some free time, I love going to listen to country music performed live. I also love baking, especially novelty cakes for my family on their birthdays. My past favourites have been a shark, a guitar and a number 5 ‘Numberblocks’ cake! Feel free to ask me about what I have created recently!

Email:creche@adhdandautism.org

Rachel Walker

Family Support Worker

Rachel Walker

Family Support Worker

I have been working as a Family Support Worker at CAAS since 2007. I have 2 sons; my eldest has ASD, ADHD and learning difficulties. When he was young we struggled to find support to help him, so I took a leave of absence from my work with an international corporation and subsequently never went back. My favourite part of my job is meeting parents and families and supporting them through the years of diagnosis: from nursery, primary and high school, onto college or university and beyond. Every week I remember the difficulties we had in the early years and at each subsequent stage of life. Now I want to welcome and help families understand and support their children. Apart from being a mother, this is the most rewarding job I have ever had with the best team, and I wouldn't want to work anywhere else.

Email:rachel@adhdandautism.org

Sharma Williams

Family Support Worker

Sharma Williams

Family Support Worker

My name is Sharma, and I am truly grateful to be part of such an incredible team here at CAAS. I am passionate about advocating for young people, parents, and carers, and I’m excited to contribute to the important work we do.

I bring 8 years of experience working in a secondary school setting, supporting children with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties, as well as those with complex needs, ADHD, and Autism.

I look forward to expanding my knowledge and providing the best possible support to the families and individuals we serve here at CAAS.

Email:sharma@adhdandautism.org

Kinga Reilly

Youth Services Programme Lead

Kinga Reilly

Youth Services Programme Lead

Hi, I'm Kinga, and I joined CAAS in January 2025 as the Youth Services Programme Lead. I am thrilled to have joined such a supportive and impactful charity that enhances the lives of children, young people with autism and ADHD, and their families.

Previously I worked as a Primary and Secondary School Teacher with various roles in educational leadership, project management, and youth support. I have always been drawn to working with children and young people with additional needs. Consequently, I gained a master's in education with Special Educational Needs and SENCO qualifications. I have always been passionate about advocating for overcoming barriers to learning and treating everyone as unique individuals. I believe in promoting personalised approaches in education, and helping children and young people develop the life skills needed for their future. This passion led me to volunteer and work for the Spectrum Youth Theatre, at a well-known puppet theatre in London. I supported young autistic people and their families and theatre workers in creating puppets and performing theatre shows. I loved working in such a diverse environment with the young people expressing their thoughts and feelings in creative ways.

When not working at CAAS, I love spending time with my friends and family and my two cats, Loki and Lola, whom my husband and I adopted while living in China. I am passionate about arts and culture, so I always keep up with what is on, such as visiting the latest show, watching a film at the cinema, or seeing an art exhibition. I am also trying to develop my photography skills, so please ask me what photo project I am working on now!

Email:kinga@adhdandautism.org

Jenny Bilham

Youth & Schools Support Worker

Jenny Bilham

Youth & Schools Support Worker

Hi, my name is Jenny. I am a Youth & Schools Support Worker at CAAS. I am very grateful to be able to work for such an understanding and compassionate company, where everyone is so ready to offer their support.

My background consists of over 10 years working as a Primary Teacher. My passion for supporting young people in schools began in the UK and then took me to Thailand, where I worked in International Schools, supporting students between 5-18 years.

Following teaching, I trained as an Outdoor Education Facilitator, guiding adventure trips across Asia for secondary students.

Since returning to the UK, I was working in the community to engage and support young people with ADHD & Autism, and it was this experience that led me to discover CAAS. I have a BSc degree in Psychology, and I am trained as a Personal Development & Mindset Coach, as well as a Sound Practitioner.

When I am not at CAAS, I love to spend quality time with my family and friends, reading, listening to music, dancing, and travelling. If you meet me in the centre, please do come and say hi! You could ask me about the next trip I’ve got planned 😊

Email:jenny@adhdandautism.org

Zeena Bishop

Youth Support Worker

Zeena Bishop

Youth Support Worker

I am lucky enough to be part of CAAS’s homegrown team! I have worked as a family support worker at CAAS since 2016. I am passionate about my job, as I get the opportunity to meet, and work with some inspirational individuals. Pre CAAS, I worked as an SEN nursery nurse. Following this, I worked as a local authority SEN family support worker and volunteered as a respite carer for children with SEN in holiday camps and family homes. At CAAS some of my work includes one to one family support work, supporting at drop-ins, co-facilitating our Living with ADHD and Autism course and siblings group, sleep support, delivering ADHD and Autism workshops at schools and delivering ESL support for ADHD and Autism. Every day is different, and different is wonderful. When not at CAAS, my life is filled with my energetic twin boys and 3-year-old daughter. Jumping through the woods in the rain, dancing around the house, singing into our brushes, writing in hidden gem coffee shops and listening to flamenco.

Email:zeena@adhdandautism.org

Helen Blowers

Schools Support Worker Hillingdon

Helen Blowers

Schools Support Worker Hillingdon

Hi, my name is Helen Blowers and I have joined CAAS as a Schools Support Worker in Hillingdon. I support year 6 and 7 students with all the changes associated with the move between Key Stage 3 & Key Stage 4. I feel very privileged to be working for such an amazing charity where everybody is so kind and welcoming. My career path has been very varied. I started in the travel industry and moved into a police role as a Scenes of Crime Officer in Hertfordshire. I quickly realised my favourite aspect of these roles was supporting members of the public. This led me to working as a Pastoral Manager at a busy secondary school, closely supporting students to enjoy their academic journey to success, along whichever path the journey took them. I love the humour and warmth kids bring to my working day.

At home I enjoy taking long walks with my dog and travelling with my family. Whilst we love a trip to a theme park, our favourite place in the world is the Isle of Wight. If you see me in the centre, please let me know of any fantastic places you have visited.

Email:helenblowers@adhdandautism.org

Anna-Maeve Creber

Youth Support Worker

Anna-Maeve Creber

Youth Support Worker

I joined CAAS in 2023 as a Youth Support Worker. My background consists of working as a Learning support assistant in a secondary school, working with 13-16 year olds specialising in GCSE support. In my role at CAAS I will be facilitating social groups such as film group, delivering training opportunities and leading a CAAS project. I feel very lucky to be able to work for such an amazing company. Everyone is so kind and welcoming and always ready to help. I have a degree in Photography and love all things creative. My favourite pass time is to walk around art museums and admire the beautiful work. I love to paint and colour, and I have recently taught myself how to knit! Music is also huge passion of mine. I have over 100 playlists on Spotify. When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family and friends. Even though I am always busy with my studies and work, I love going on dog walks and I have recently got back into swimming. If you meet me at the centre, why don’t you ask me about my next trip I’ve got planned? I love to travel, and a life goal of mine is to go to every single country in the world!

Email:annamaeve@adhdandautism.org

Laura Dennis

Youth & Schools Support Worker

Laura Dennis

Youth & Schools Support Worker

Hi! I’m Laura, a Youth & Schools Support Worker for CAAS and feel really excited to be a part of such a caring and dynamic team here at CAAS.

I am a qualified primary school teacher, covering many teaching roles across Hillingdon, where I developed a passion for working with special needs children. During the pandemic, my eyes were opened to the needs of children beyond the school setting. I completed a counselling foundation and began volunteering for my local Home-Start, a role I quickly grew to love. I then worked as a Family Support Coordinator for Home-Start in Watford for 2 years, where I was able to support and empower families with children under 5. During my time at Home-Start I realised that my true passion is supporting people with autism and ADHD. I started exploring this and was lucky to find CAAS.

My home life is busy - living with my husband and three teenage children. I like to spend time reading, listening to music, cooking and watching movies. I love to snuggle up on the sofa to watch fantasy movies and anime with my children.

If you bump into me at the centre, I would love to chat about what you are watching or reading!

Email:lauraD@adhdandautism.org

Asli Hassan

Youth & Schools Support Worker

Asli Hassan

Youth & Schools Support Worker

I’m thrilled to be joining CAAS as a Youth & School Support Worker! This role feels like a perfect fit for me as I bring over 20 years of experience working with young people. Most recently, I worked in a SEND high school, but my passion for supporting young people and amplifying their voices has been the cornerstone of my career.

I have extensive experience with ADHD and Autism, both professionally and personally, which has shaped my understanding and empathy. I’m always eager to expand my knowledge and continue learning to provide the best support possible.

Outside of work, my life revolves around my three wonderful children, who keep me busy and motivated. Ensuring they are happy and thriving is my greatest joy. To recharge, I love indulging in some retail therapy, catching up with friends over a good coffee, or treating myself to a cheeky spa day.

When the day winds down, you’ll often find me unwinding with a true crime documentary on Netflix. If you have any great recommendations, be sure to let me know next time we chat!

Email:asli@adhdandautism.org

Aaron Jewell

Schools Support Worker Hounslow

Aaron Jewell

Schools Support Worker Hounslow

Hello!

My name is Aaron and I joined as a Youth & School Support Worker for Hounslow Borough in 2024. I got started working in SEN all the way back in 2012, before spending the next 8 years at a school for children with autism where I ended up becoming a School Wide Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner, leading on pastoral care. I was sad to leave but so excited for this new opportunity to bring CAAS to those who need it most within high schools! I also have a degree in Psychology (hoping to do my M.Sc. soon!) and have a special interest in training staff in best practice, particularly when it comes to reducing restraint within schools.

I am also a huge nerd, I love board games, video games and the occasional anime. I’m also keen to keep active, either playing football, running or gym every week. If you see me about, please do say hey, I’d love to know what you do for fun! 🙂

Email:aaron@adhdandautism.org

Shakilah Kyalisiima

Youth & Schools Support Worker

Shakilah Kyalisiima

Youth & Schools Support Worker

I joined CAAS towards the end of 2023 as a Youth and Schools Support Worker. I have a particular interest in promoting the emotional wellbeing and mental health of Neurodivergent young people and the adults around them both at home and in schools. All my career experiences revolve around working directly in further education and secondary school settings with autistic learners, students experiencing social emotional mental health difficulties, students with complex behaviour needs / challenging behaviour and students who have experienced adverse childhood experiences.

I have a degree in Psychology and a master's degree in Psychology of Mental Health. I also hold a graduate membership status with The British Psychological Society. ADHD, autism, and inclusion are topics I have extensively researched as part of my research projects at university. An opportunity to work with CAAS is a dream come true for me.

I use my free time to watch education programmes, read about SEND provisions in schools, I do a lot of research on inclusion, trauma informed practices in schools, mental health and early interventions and positive parenting. If you come across any reading materials or TV shows in line with the above, please feel free to share them with me.

Email:shakilah@adhdandautism.org

Alice Morley

Youth & Schools Support Worker

Alice Morley

Youth & Schools Support Worker

My name’s Allie and I’m a Youth and Schools Support Worker! I have a BSc in Psychology from the University of Bath, and several years of experience working as an Assistant Psychologist in special educational settings and the NHS.

Outside of work I love cycling and swimming and anything that’s outdoors including camping and festivals. I love spending time with my friends and family too and taking trips abroad. My interests are in Psychology and mental health and am soon going to be undertaking training in Counselling and love reading books about Psychology so if you have any book recommendations please let me know!

If you meet me at the centre, please ask me about my year working as a Detective in the Met Police and I can tell you some of my stories!

Email:alice@adhdandautism.org

Emily Kersey

Specialist Adult Autism Team Lead

Emily Kersey

Specialist Adult Autism Team Lead

I joined CAAS in June 2021 as an Autism Advisor based in Harrow and Brent. I have worked with autistic people since I left school in various education and care settings, and am honoured to have the opportunity to work with the autistic community in North West London. When I’m not working I spend my time playing video games and drawing.

Email:emily@adhdandautism.org

Roz Perry

Adult Team Support Officer

Roz Perry

Adult Team Support Officer

My first introduction to the wonderful world of Autism happened not long after the birth of my youngest son 22 years ago. To ensure I would be able to support my son to the best of my capabilities I embraced the neurodiverse world of Autism and set about to educate myself; of course, I am and always will be learning! I was and still am passionate about Autism. I have previously worked as a Family Support Worker for 9 years advocating, supporting, and championing the rights of Autistic individuals and their families. My child is now an adult, and my passion has not waned. When the opportunity arose to work for CAAS on their new project, Adult Autism NW London Service I was delighted to accept the role of Autism Advisor in the Adult team.

Email:roz@adhdandautism.org

Suhur Ahmed

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

Suhur Ahmed

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

I started working with CAAS in November 2021. I have a personal and professional experience in supporting autistic adults in the community. I enjoy learning to support with our members and connecting professionals to ensure that services are accessible and inclusive. Outside of working for CAAS, I am also currently pursuing my master’s in public health, I also enjoy spending time with my family, connecting with my faith. If you meet me at the centre, why don’t you ask me about anime!

Email:suhur@adhdandautism.org

Zoë Crighton

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

Zoë Crighton

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

Hey there! I'm Zoë, and I'm thrilled to be a part of the CAAS team as a Specialist Adult Autism Advisor. With nearly two decades of experience in the education and charity sector, I've dedicated my career to making a positive impact on the lives of children, young people, and young adults. I've had the privilege of working with individuals and groups who have diverse needs, including special educational needs, mental health challenges, neurodivergent people, youth offending and behavioural. I am proud to be a good listener and am known for my confidence, assertiveness, and proactive approach to addressing complex issues.

Beyond my professional role, I'm a dedicated mother and wife, cherishing moments spent with my children and husband. I'm passionate about activities and days out that bring my children joy, foster learning, and create precious memories. And when it's time for me to unwind, I love good food and cooking with my husband. You'll often find me engrossed in a gripping drama programme or a reality TV show! If you ever spot me at the centre, please don't hesitate to recommend a show!

Email:zoeC@adhdandautism.org

Emma Hurrell

Specialist Autism Training and Content Officer

Emma Hurrell

Specialist Autism Training and Content Officer

Hi! I’m Emma, I joined CAAS early 2024 as the new Specialist Autism Training and Content Officer.

Previously, I have worked widely across the charity sector at organisations such as Mind and The Mix as well as mentoring autistic individuals at Genius Within. I have a strong passion for debunking myths about autism and educating professionals around appropriate language to use. In the past, I have worked with NHS trusts to improve the provision of services for neurodivergent individuals and given talks to trainee psychologists about autism. I am also currently studying part time for a psychology degree and have a keen interest in neurodiversity and mental health.

In my spare time, I enjoy attending the latest movie premieres, playing video games and participating in martial arts. You might see me around CAAS at some of the groups and training sessions, if you see me at the centre feel free to talk to me about all kinds of movies and animals!

Email:emma@adhdandautism.org

Toby Lawson

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

Toby Lawson

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

Hello there! My name is Toby and I started at CAAS in October 2024. I was an active participant of many groups and courses at the centre for over a year before joining the team as a Specialist Advisor. I’m thrilled to now be part of such a wonderful organisation and have the opportunity to help and support other neurodiverse individuals.

Throughout my working life, I’ve gained a wide range of experience, from working as a chef and bartender to being an oil painting artist and theatre actor, as well as teaching English as a foreign language. Over the years I’ve lived in both bustling urban cities and the quiet peaceful countryside, and spent many years living abroad, primarily in Italy. I’m a curious soul fascinated by our ever-changing world and the rich diversity found in all walks of life. Beyond that, I’m a people person and a creative problem solver who likes thinking outside the box.

In my free time I keep active doing yoga or going running. I also love taking long walks exploring beautiful natural environments or taking in a museums or art galleries in the city. Additionally, I’m a film buff with a real passion for cinema, while also having a keen interest in video games, aspiring to design and create my own game one day.

If you see me at the centre, ask me what I thought of the last film I saw or about the latest game I’ve been playing.

Email:toby@adhdandautism.org

Laura Nettleford

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

Laura Nettleford

Specialist Adult Autism Advisor

I have a personal and professional interest in Autism, which led me to expand my professional experience within the Autistic community. I’ve recently taken on the role with CAAS to help support Autistic Adults. I am the Autism Advisor for Hillingdon and Ealing and looking forward to getting to know Autistic people in the area, local services, and helping to establish Autistic driven services in the area.

Email:laura@adhdandautism.org

Sarah Palmer

Specialist Adult ADHD Advisor

Sarah Palmer

Specialist Adult ADHD Advisor

Hi I’m Sarah and I am an Adult Autism Advisor at CAAS. Previously I worked with young adults in an educational setting supporting them through the higher education route through listening, guiding, advising and supporting. I am a good listener, patient and always ready to help. I have two children aged 14 and 9 and a bouncy labrador who all keep me busy outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends usually in a nice coffee shop or out shopping. I nearly always have a coffee in my hand, if you see me at CAAS feel free to recommend a good coffee to me, I will try them all!

Email:sarahpalmer@adhdandautism.org

Harsha Makwana

Finance Manager

Harsha Makwana

Finance Manager

Hi, I'm Harsha, and I joined CAAS in January 2025 as a Finance Manager. I really feel privileged to join an organisation such as CAAS with a fantastic team who give their everything to deliver important services to clients and help whole heartedly with immense compassion.

I bring over 35 years of experience in the finance industry and have previously worked for larger commercial organisations in various industries. I look forward to sharing my experience and helping to to ensure all finance functions run smoothly within the organisation. I have two daughters who are settled in their lives and both work for corporate companies. Outside of work I love travelling, cooking, reading, and knitting. If you are in the Centre, please do drop in to say hello, tell me your stories or ask for any support and I will endeavour to help in any way I can.

Email:harsha@adhdandautism.org

Anna Atack

Administrator

Anna Atack

Administrator

Hi! I’m Anna, and I joined the wonderful CAAS team in April 2019 as an Administrator. Before working here, I was a PA for a busy recruitment agency and, more recently, I worked for a web design agency. My role included Admin and Social Media. I love working for CAAS and feel passionate about the amazing work we do here helping so many families. I have 3 children – a 15-year-old, and 11-year-old twins, which keep me busy! We enjoy spending time together as a family at the weekend (in between all the activities!) and taking our little dog on long walks. Feel free to say hi if you see me at CAAS!

Email:anna@adhdandautism.org

Farheen Dhalabhoy

Finance and Monitoring Assistant

Farheen Dhalabhoy

Finance and Monitoring Assistant

I am the Finance and Monitoring Assistant at CAAS, having joined in July 2021. I assist Rebecca with all the financials and monitoring at the company. After having gotten my first degree followed by my master’s degree in Marketing and Finance, I had worked with different independent companies and had been with the NHS for the last 9 years prior to joining CAAS. I love being part of the lovely and friendly team here, supporting them with the great work that they are doing with helping individuals of all ages. I have 3 children, so apart from my role here, I am a busy mom, forever taxi-ing the children around for their activities, which I quite like doing. We enjoy family time on the weekends, spending time together, and meeting family and friends. If you ever see me at the centre, please feel free to say ‘Hi!’. I have my head buried in spreadsheets most of the time so I would love to take a break to meet some new people and say hello!

Email:farheen@adhdandautism.org

Hannah D'Cruz

Communications Officer

Hannah D'Cruz

Communications Officer

Hi, I'm Hannah. I'm the Communications Officer here at CAAS, which means I handle our website, social media, and posters.

Email:media@adhdandautism.org

Gemma Doocey

Fundraiser

Gemma Doocey

Fundraiser

Hi, I’m Gemma and I started working at CAAS in 2022 as the fundraiser. I love working at CAAS, raising money for such a fantastic cause and supporting my wonderful colleagues is so rewarding. Fundraising is a really varied role allowing me to connect with the local community and meet inspiring people who go above and beyond for our charity. If you have any fundraising ideas or initiatives I'd love to hear from you! Please find me at the centre or send me an email - I'd love to chat all things fundraising with you.

Email:fundraising@adhdandautism.org