Who we are
Includes Us 2 is a local parent-driven charity providing information and support to disabled children, young people and their families in the areas of Ashford, Folkestone and Hythe and Dover.
Includes Us 2 is led by a Board of Trustees, the majority of whom are themselves parents of disabled children. This means we are able to ensure that our mission and values reflect the needs of disabled children and their families living in our area.
“Nobody judges me, like I’ve done something wrong. Everyone treats me like an equal, it means so much.”
Staff & Trustees
Lucy Ellis
Manager
I’ve been a part of the Includes Us 2 team since 2022, first as a trustee and then in July 2024 I was appointed manager. I have a background in management and business development. I’ve also been involved in several community projects over the years, which has been incredibly rewarding.
I live in Ashford with my two amazing boys, both of whom have autism. My eldest is wrapping up his school journey, while my youngest is just getting started. Experiencing these different stages firsthand has given me a deep understanding of the challenges we face as parents.
At Includes Us 2, I’m passionate about using my professional experience and personal journey to support and advocate for our community. I’m here to help make a difference and ensure we have the resources and support we need.
Bridget King
Chair of Trustees
I joined the board in spring 2024 as chair in Spring 2024. I’m a full time Youth and Community Worker currently working with military families across Kent. As part of my role, I deliver SEND Family Support groups in my areas of responsibility. It was during these groups that I became aware of Includes Us 2 and the work they carry out with the SEND community. I have a lived experience of SEND, my grandson is diagnosed with ASC and is on the pathway for ADHD diagnosis, my granddaughter is undiagnosed however she displays the original “coke bottle effect” behaviours. As Chair of Includes Us 2 I hope to use my professional and personal experiences to develop the charity and dedicated team to deliver a comprehensive range of support and activities for our families.
Jennifer Anthony
Treasurer
Jennifer has been an IU2 Trustee for several years, as well as accessing the services for her 3 boys, all diagnosed with ASD and ADHD. She became Chair in March 2022 and has experience teaching English to adults and currently works with deaf children in primary education. Jennifer is pleased to be working with the IU2 team and planning for the future.
Millie Moore
Trustee
Millie brings to the Board of Trustees a wealth of fundraising expertise and a deep passion for the mission of Includes Us 2, shaped by her own lived experiences. Millie has over three years of successful fundraising experience, making significant strides in supporting charitable causes. Born and raised in Ashford, Kent, Millie graduated from the University of Kent with a degree in Criminology & Sociology. As someone living with rheumatoid arthritis, Millie has firsthand knowledge of the challenges that come with living with a disability, which fuels her dedication to advocacy and support for individuals and families navigating similar experiences.
Patrick Perrot
Trustee
Pat joined us in Summer 2024 and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Shane Bishop
Trustee
Shane joined us in in May 2024
Nicola Crowfoot
Senior Family Support Lead
Nicola lives with her husband, son with autism, daughter with dyslexia and their pets. She has been working for Includes us 2 for many years now and in her previous roles has always worked with children or young people with disabilities and their families. Nicola loves helping people and watching their confidence grow.
Michelle Hogben
Family Support Lead
Michelle lives in Ashford and has worked in a customer facing role for the last 15 years. She loves being able to help people and making a difference. She has developed a sound knowledge of services in Kent that can help our families. She loves spending time making things during our school holiday craft events and in her spare time you will find her sewing wonderful creations!
Sarah Bishop
Family Support Officer
I have a variety of knowledge and skills from working as a TA, working in residential care for children with disabilities and having a son with ASD & ADHD. Being a deaf member of staff allows me to share some insight and experience of the Deaf community. I strongly believe in giving back to community and love a challenge
Davina James
Family Support Officer
Davina lives in Dover and has 3 children two of which have ASC and ADHD. I am a very friendly and supportive person who likes to help others wherever I can.
Jane Buss
Operations Assistant
More to come on Jane soon
Clare Winwood
Volunteer
Clare lives in Dover and has 2 teenagers, one with PDD and the other with ASD. She has volunteered in a primary school and has a Level 2 certificate in Children and Young Peoples Workforce. Clare loves volunteering with Includes Us 2 as she wants to give back for all the support she has received in the past.
Rebecca Readman
Volunteer
More about Rebecca coming soon….
Join our charity. Membership is open to parents and carers of disabled children and young people and those with additional needs in Ashford, Dover and Folkestone & Hythe. There is no cost involved and benefits include access to information and support, signposting to helpful organisations and involvement in our events and activities.