Our Trustees

Charity Founder & Operational Development Lead

Natalie Houfe

Natalie founded Hidden Disabilities Charity in August 2023 as a result of her daughter developing a chronic illness called POTS and becoming aware of the lack of understanding and support for those struggling with hidden disabilities. Having lived experience as a carer, plus losing friends and other family members to chronic health conditions throughout the decades made Natalie feel determined to try to help make a change. She feels her past experiences have lead her to this moment and is passionate about creating awareness, a supportive friendly inclusive community, plus sharing helpful resources and accessible opportunities. Previously chair of  Women in Business for 3 years, organising activities and running  virtual events throughout the covid pandemic, being a business owner and event organiser for the Women of Achievement awards 2022 she felt she had picked up the tools that could help make an impact to this sector. For Natalie, ultimately, it is all about non judgement, just be kind, learn to understand, support and make the world fair and inclusive. 

Lived Experience Trustee

Bethany Headland

Bethany Headland is a disabled student, who hopes to use her own personal experience with chronic illness to help others. She is passionate about disability rights and the history of disability. Studying English Literature at the University of York, she is currently writing her dissertation 'Monstrous Bodies: The fear of Disability in Medieval Literature'. Bethany's primary goal is to help tackle the loneliness disability can bring and create events and spaces where disabled people can connect. In her spare time (of which she has lots) she loves writing, reading, playing dungeons and dragons and crocheting. She hopes to see you at an event!

Charity Chair

Karen Newton

Karen trained as a nurse qualifying in 1981 and worked both in the NHS and the private sector in senior nursing positions for many years. She then completed an MBA before becoming Hospital Director at a private hospital and latterly becoming a National Operations Director for a private hospital chain where Karen specialised in business margin improvement, process improvement/re-engineering and clinical quality standards. Karen now works as an independent consultant advising small businesses on managing processes and margin and quality improvement. Karen is also the current chair of WiB.

Charity Bid Writer

Carol Ideson

Carol has had a career spanning 40 years. Spending 30 years in the public sector before setting up her business supporting charities, community groups, businesses and schools with funding applications and tenders and providing support and guidance to help maximise income for the groups I support and for the city. Carol won the WiB Overall Women of Achievement Awards in 2023 and has made a massive contribution to the city by bid-writing and helping local charities achieve grants. Carol loves helping to make a difference to the people of Hull has helped bring… into the city!

Mental Health Practitioner Trustee

Gemma Wardell

Gemma has had a career with people at the core! She is passionate about people and believes that all humans have untapped potential and the ability to grow, change, develop and become the absolute best version of themselves. Gemma has worked in the field of mental health and wellbeing for many years and is a UKCP accredited Psychotherapist, Supervisor, Trainer and Coach. Gemma is involved in many community projects and has created, set up and led services locally. Gemma has had a personal journey with hidden disabilities and has worked passionately throughout her career to make a difference. 

Charity HR Lead

Rachel Lowe

Rachel has 28 years of experience in HR, working with organizations such as Morrisons, Rezidor Hotel Group, VictoriaPlum.com, and Business in the Community. Currently serving as Chief People Officer with The John Good Group, Rachel is dedicated to fostering inclusive workplace environments that support individual growth and well-being. Recognized as an Inspirational Female Leader in Family Business United's 2024 listing, Rachel brings a personal understanding of hidden disabilities, having supported loved ones facing these challenges. She is committed to supporting the Hidden Disabilities team in their mission to raise awareness and understanding of hidden disabilities, making a difference in people's lives now and in the future.