Meet the team
A Stitch Different CIC Directors
A Stitch Different’ Community Interest Company is comprised of Cumbrian family and friends of young people with ASC and various disabilities.
As active members of our disability community this Social Enterprise has been created with the aim manufacturing affordable & bespoke sensory items.
We help local people living with Autism or other disabilities by providing meaningful activities and employment.
Any proceeds made are re-invested into our Stitch Ability Project or donated back to support local groups.
As well as our team of expert seamstresses, lead by Jean our manufacturing manager, much of our work is undertaken, voluntarily, by our entire team for the greater good of our community.
We cannot do this without the support of our amazing volunteers as our projects wouldn’t run without them.
AMANDA BLAND
FOUNDER
Proactive and very proud mum of an adult son living with autism.
Mandy is determined that parents have access to affordable products and that those with disabilities have access to meaningful activity.
As well as a vast knowledge of sensory and autism issues, to help support families, Mandy is also a trained sleep practitioner
DEBBIE TWINNEY
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Parent of a son with ASD and a grandson with sensory issues, who is currently going through diagnosis
Debbie has extensive knowledge of sensory issues, home tutoring and is resolute that no other parents should experience the issues frequently faced through ignorance and the barriers to accessing essential services.
DR DAVID LUND
IT DIRECTOR
Has two wider family members living with Autism
Specialism in internet security and communication. David also facilitates the development of the business to ensure we’re sustainable, as well as keeping our technology up to date. David is responsible for our feasibility studies across our range of exciting new projects.
AMANDA BECKETT
COMPANY SECRETARY
Registered Mental Health Nurse.
With a background in mental health nursing and support Mandie is our company secretary.
A keen activist in supporting those with disabilities she has spent many years fundraising for local disability organisation
STUART BRAITHWAITE
HEALTH & SAFETY DIRECTOR
Father of 2 young girls, Stuart, is also heavily involved in community work.
Trained in many areas Stuart is head of all things Health & Safety, ensuring we meet all regulations on both products, equipment and training.
LES MCCLEESE
YOUTH ABILITY
Working alongside the rest of the team, Les, from YouthAbility Youth Services, brings many years of expertise in youth work.
He ensures the participants of our ASDAN accredited, Stitch Ability Project, reach their full potential.