Carolann Jackson

President In 1997, following my daughter’s Asperger diagnosis at the Maudsley, I found that none of the services they recommended existed in Essex, so I founded SAFE to provide a place where families could meet and discuss the issues which concerned them and their children.

SAFE became a charity in 2002 and I was elected Chair. In 2010 I was elected Lifetime President. Apart from running ASAP (Asperger Syndrome Adults and Parents), I now concentrate on advocacy and campaigning for our Asperger community, as well as talking at conferences and seminars, raising awareness of this most enigmatic autistic condition. With our help, and the support of parents, I have seen the progress many of our Aspies have made over time, and I am proud to be associated with SAFE, having seen it grow from a small ‘comfort group’ into the respected charity it now is.

Clive Potter

Acting Chair I have been a member of SAFE since 1999 and on the Executive since 2004. My wife Fern and I live in Leigh on Sea with our son.

Our son born in 1989 was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome at nine years of age and is now at university.

I run my own company and try to bring practical support and direction to the Executive.

Phil Thurlow

Treasurer I have been a member of SAFE since 2006.

In 2010 I had the honour of being elected as Treasurer. Since 2007 I have been the Treasurer for the Chelmsford and Mid Essex branch of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

I have been employed at Bradwell Power Station in various jobs since 1980. My current position is Head of Work Control and Delivery, where I am responsible for the Site infrastructure. One of my duties is to manage the £5 million budget for the operations and maintenance of the site.

I have a daughter born in 1990 and a son born in 1993, who was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome when she was 12.

Chris Sorrell

I have a son with Asperger Syndrome and sit on the SAFE South Committee. I am heavily involved in SAFE Stuff on a Saturday morning.

I work in London as an Advertising Manager, selling space and sponsorship online, offline in magazines and on TV. Before this I was a financial adviser for 12 years.

I also manage to drag my aching limbs round the football pitch once a week and also still play cricket. I have been an Executive member of SAFE since 2007.

Peter Neal

Having been grateful to SAFE for support over a number of years, as our son Sam received a diagnosis of Aspergers, while in senior school and I hope to bring a degree of encouragement and support to the group.

My wife Jane has been actively involved with Safe South for a number of years.

My career background has involved 20 years in farming and 20 years as a Baptist minister.