Deb is the heart of Five Acres. As co-founder, she has dedicated herself to ensuring that every Champion receives the support they need to develop their independence, skills, and confidence. Her vision is to create a place where young adults with additional needs can thrive, be respected, and have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Joseph provides hands-on support in various activities, offering guidance to help our Champions develop new skills and build their confidence. His caring approach ensures that each individual is given the tools they need to succeed and feel valued within the Five Acres community.

Joseph’s journey with Five Acres is truly inspiring—he first came to Five Acres as a Champion and, through his hard work and dedication, progressed to an apprenticeship. During this time, he achieved his Level 2 Diploma in Care, further enhancing his ability to support others. Joseph’s personal experience makes him especially empathetic and committed to helping others succeed.

As co-founder, Gav brings his wealth of experience in leadership and strategic planning to Five Acres. He is passionate about creating a sustainable, inclusive space for our Champions and leads the team with a focus on operational excellence. Gav’s leadership ensures that Five Acres runs smoothly, with every decision made in the best interest of our Champions.

Lauren leads the Media sessions  at Five Acres, teaching Champions valuable digital and creative skills. Whether it’s photography, video editing, or social media, Lauren empowers individuals to express themselves through media while developing skills they can use both in and outside of the centre.

Donna plays a pivotal role in securing funding and promoting Five Acres to a wider audience. She works tirelessly to build relationships with local businesses, charities, and grant agencies to ensure that the centre can continue its invaluable work. Donna also helps tell the story of Five Acres through marketing and public relations efforts, ensuring that the Champions’ achievements are shared with the community.

Sue is the backbone of our administrative functions, keeping everything organized and running smoothly. As a Learning Mentor, she is also directly involved with our Champions, providing them with the personal support they need to succeed in their programs. Sue’s expertise in both areas ensures that our centre is a well-oiled machine, offering a structured yet welcoming environment for everyone.

Charlotte, as Centre Manager, oversees the daily operations of Five Acres. With a hands-on approach, she ensures that the centre runs effectively while keeping the well-being of all Champions at the forefront. Charlotte also manages a range of exciting projects that foster personal growth and development for each individual.

Billie is a dedicated mentor who works closely with Champions to help them reach their goals. She is committed to providing consistent support and encouragement, ensuring that every individual feels confident in their journey at Five Acres. Billie’s personal approach helps build relationships that make a meaningful difference in our Champions’ lives.

Andy is the Site Manager and Head of Horticulture at our Brafferton location, ensuring the site operates smoothly while leading our Champions in hands-on horticultural activities. With a strong background in site management and outdoor learning, he plays a key role in maintaining the grounds, overseeing repairs, and ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for all.

Carol heads up the Cookery School, where Champions can learn essential life skills, from meal planning to nutrition and cooking techniques. Her nurturing and supportive approach helps individuals gain confidence in the kitchen, and the skills learned have long-lasting impacts on their independence and self-sufficiency.