Our Trustees
At Hidden Disabilities, our dedicated team of trustees plays a pivotal role in guiding our organization's mission and ensuring transparency, accountability, and strategic direction. Committed to the cause of empowering individuals with hidden disabilities our trustees bring diverse expertise from various fields, including healthcare, advocacy, IT, HR, business, charity, lived experience of chronic conditions and community engagement. With their unwavering commitment and passion, they steer our initiatives, oversee our programs, and make impactful decisions that drive positive change for those living with hidden disabilities. Meet our esteemed trustees, the driving force behind our efforts to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.
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.
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.
IT Lead
Alex McCallum
Alex has a diverse background in industries, from IT and web development to education, franchising, and publishing. With a strong focus on client needs, Alex has held positions in many companies such as Think360 and The One Point, A Hull boy, Alex enjoys a wide variety of social activities. When he heard about the charity, he wanted to make a difference having seen the great works that the charity is doing.
Hull boy (born and bred) although my schooling did in some part take place in Grimsby and latterly in Scarborough for University. Consistently fascinated by disruptive technologies and their potential to transform life and business. Senior executive with a keen focus on technology, operations and strategy with over a decade of experience across top technology applications including Google, Microsoft, and Apple. Highly skilled in strategic planning, IT troubleshooting and general technologies. Recognised for the ability to talk tech without talking too techy so that everyone understands what I'm trying say.
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.
Trustee
Malcolm Cuthbert
I was born in South East Essex and joined the Royal Air Force in my teens, beginning a journey that has shaped both my personal and professional life. After leaving the RAF, I relocated to Hull in January 1982 and have proudly called it home ever since.
My career in financial services began in May 1982, and I have worked continuously as a Financial Adviser. I am currently an Independent Financial Adviser with a respected local firm. I spent 12 years with Legal & General before joining a local practice in 1994, which later became Asset IFA Limited. I served as a Director—specifically Compliance Director—from 2000 to 2019.
I specialise in pensions and investments, with a particular focus on holistic retirement planning. My qualifications include degree-level expertise in this area, and I remain passionate about providing personalised advice to clients as they plan for the future.
Outside of work, I enjoy global travel, music, and dance. I’m an avid football supporter—lifelong Arsenal fan and Hull City season ticket holder. Reading and audiobooks are a true passion of mine, with a wide range of interests across genres. I’ve also contributed to the community as a school governor and through charitable work via Freemasonry.