A short introduction to our Office Staff, Trustees, Support Staff and Volunteers who help make the group the success that it is –
Pat Allison – Founder of Hartlepool Special Needs Support Group since it set up in 1989, she worked for many years in a voluntary capacity before being employed in her present position. Pat’s eldest son, who has Cerebral Palsy become a member in 1989. Pat’s husband and youngest son along with close friend who has Down Syndrome and become a member in 2006, all continue to attend many of the groups social activities and regular clubs. Pat was previously a committee member of Friends of Thornhill School and then a Governor for Catcote School. Her experience, specialist knowledge, organisation skills and dedication were an enormous asset to the group. Following Pat’s retirement in 2024, she continues to volunteer much of her own time to ensure the group continues being a huge success passing on her valuable knowledge and experience.
The Staff
Julie Carter – Manager – Julie joined the team in May 2023. She has 3 children, her youngest son Sam, who has Down Syndrome became a member of the Group in 2004 and her Grandson attends some activities. Julie prevously held the position of a Governor at Catcote Academy for 6 years. Prior to her employment she contributed some voluntary hours within Hartlepool Special Needs Support Group. Over the years she has attended many meetings and training sessions to gather knowledge and information relevant to disability and services that may contribute to families who have a disabled child or young adult, which is now put into use in her role as Manager since 2025.
Michelle Hall – Administration – Michelle is married with 2 sons. Michelle took up the position in administration in 2016 and brought knowledge and experience in admin from a previous position she held for nine years in another local charity. Michelle continues to gain greater understanding of our members and their families.
The Trustees
Jamie Allison – became Chair in 2026. Jamie stepped into the role as “interim Chair” following Chair’s resignation, he was then elected as “Chair” in 2026 prior to this Jamie was a Trustee and a member the Core Fundraising Group. Jamie has been involved from a very young age, alongside his brother. Jamie’s mum was founder and as a result, Jamie and his family have been heavily involved from the beginning. Jamie has a vast knowledge of everything IT related and hopes to use this knowledge to move Hartlepool Special Needs Support Group through the next 25 years.
Marlene Barnard – became a trustee in 2018. Marlene held the position of a Teaching Assistant for 13 years at Catcote Academy working primarily with children who have Autism. Marlene is married with 3 children. Their oldest child has been diagnosed with autism and joined the group in 2015, he continues to attends some social oppportunties as a family. Marlene has a special interest in the success and growth of group and hopes that she can do her part to help it go from strength to strength in our goal to enrich the lives of those we love.
Karen Taylor – became a trustee in 2018. Karen holds the position of a dental nurse receptionist with extended duties. Karen is married with 2 children. Their oldest son has a medical condition, Meares Irlen and learning difficulties. He joined the group in 2016 attending Friend’s Drama Fun Club and Youth Club. All the family have benefited from the group attending lots of the activities the group provides and Karen is excited at the opportunity of becoming a member of the trustees.
Shaun McCabe – became a co-opted trustee in 2023 prior to being elected for Trustee in 2024. Shaun is married with 2 sons. His youngest son has multiple additional needs and joined the group in 2018 enjoying Children’s Fun Club and the Summer Scheme. All the family have benefitted by attending out of school activities, theatre trips and charity nights. Shaun has also organised and held some successful christmas themed fundraising events. Shaun has always been enthusiatic in raising funds and the profile of the Group and looks forward to his involvement as a co-opted trustee.
Hayley Bouabda – became a trustee in 2025. Hayley is a mother to a wonderful son with autism who inspires her to think creatively and see the world from different perspectives. With a professional background in hospitality and current experience in online retail, Hayley developed strong communication skills and a deep understanding of people and their different needs. She considers herself a natural problem-solver who enjoys helping others and creating positive experiences. Hayley believes laughter and connection are some of life’s greatest joys. After seeing how much her son thrived when he joined Friends Club and Drama in 2023, she was inspired to become more involved and was delighted to be elected for Trustee. She is passionate about supporting inclusive spaces where young people can build confidence, friendships, and happiness.
Support Staff & Volunteers – Our group has a team of well trained support staff and volunteers, who specialise in working with children and young adults who have a disability, and are trained in a multitude of areas. We rely heavily on our volunteers and support staff who all hold a DBS.