About Us
Our purpose
To empower disabled people so that they are connected, happy and seen
Our history
Previously known as DYAC, we were formed in 1988 by a group of parents who wanted activities for their adult disabled children. Initially run by volunteers and based at Dean Clark House in Southernhay, DYAC soon grew into a busy service providing fun learning and development activities in areas such as technology and Independent Living Skills to disabled adults in Exeter and the surrounding area. A small holiday club for disabled children was introduced in 2000, then a move to custom – adapted premises in 2004 saw an increase in capacity which enabled both services to grow significantly.
In response to requests from people who used existing services but wanting something more tailored to individual needs, Community Services was introduced in 2011. Then to complete our “menu” of services, Calmer Lives (formally known as BISnet) was formed in 2012.
Our values
What it means for the people we support
Empowering people to have choice and control over their lives and their support using a "can do" attitude.
What it means for the team
Shared belief in the right for people to make their own informed choices about their lives and motivation to make things happen for people.
What it means for the people we support
Approaching challenges with a positive mindset. Going the “extra mile” to get good outcomes for people.
What it means for the team
Team members are supported to be resourceful and motivated to find creative solutions in their work.
What it means for the team
Recognising and celebrating team members' unique skills & abilities. Inclusive workplace where everyone is heard and valued. Treating each other with kindness, care and compassion. Being polite and valuing each other’s ideas and opinions.
What it means for the people we support
Supporting people to establish and maintain good relationships, recognising that positive interactions & connection are key to a happy and fulfilling life.
What it means for the team
Teamwork, welcoming and supportive, friendly, common sense of purpose and belonging, good relationships.
What it means for the people we support
Trust is built up through consistently good services, transparency, and honesty. Feedback actively sought and acted upon.
What it means for the team
Freedom within clear guidelines, trusted to do job well, being able to ask and challenge safely (Psychological Safety), mistakes viewed as learning opportunities.
What it means for the people we support
“Whole Person” approach to planning support, considering a range of factors in a person’s life to help them feel good physically and emotionally. Bring enjoyment, fun and meaningful experiences to people’s lives.
What it means for the team
Commitment to a good work/life balance and a holistic approach to employee's wellbeing in order to increase resilience, motivation and engagement. Enjoyable, rewarding work in a friendly, supportive and fun environment.
Our People
Board of Trustees
We are overseen by a Board of Trustees who have overall responsibility for Ceda and make important decisions. The committee includes our CEO, finance officer, a supported person representative and a parent representative as well as trustees. Our trustees have a variety of skills and experience which help to bring a diverse range of viewpoints and expertise.
The Leadership Team
Diana Cole
CEO
Diana leads the organisation and the leadership team
Craig Bowden
Partnership and Marketing
Craig works closely with our partners, other organisations and individuals and promotes the work of CEDA
Sarah Kingdon
Quality and Impact
Sarah works closely with service managers to ensure the quality of our services meets our purpose and values
Rachel Clemens
People and Culture
Rachel promotes wellbeing and a positive culture and ensures Ceda’s wider team have the training and support they need
Nick Cranston
Youth Service Manager
Nick leads the senior youth team and oversees funding, allocations and youth services. He is the Children’s Safeguarding Lead
Sarah Curtis
Community Services Manager
Sarah leads the Community Services team and ensures supported people’s needs and choices are met
Jenna Tolley
Activity Hub Manager
Jenna leads the Activity Hub team, and is responsible for ensuring the Activity Hub meets the needs and choices of its members
Howard Hoskins
Calmer Lives Manager Howard leads Calmer Lives and works daily as a Mentor as well as trainer
Naomi Collins
Finance Officer Naomi looks after Ceda’s finances and is responsible for invoicing, salaries and keeping track of all income and outgoings
Jennifer Levey
Calmer Lives Mentor Jennifer works alongside families and prides herself on working sensitively and therapeutically with all
Dione Langmaid
Activity Hub Team Leader Dione supports the Activity Hub team to lead a variety of sessions based on supported people’s choices
Silvana Bernardes
Senior Community Enabler
Silvana supports the Community Team and is a point of contact for team members and supported people
Gal Townhill
Youth Service Coordinator
Gal leads on behaviour support in the youth service as well as overseeing the training for the staff team
Taylor Nash
Youth Service Coordinator Taylor runs our Holiday Clubs and is the main point of contact for this, she also oversees our volunteer team
Mollie Copp
Senior Youth Leader
Mollie runs our Afterschool Club and Saturday Clubs and is the main point of contact for the bookings and planning of these clubs
Tara Meadows
Senior Youth Leader
Tara leads our young people’s consultation as well as supporting our social group