Meet the team
George Baker
Founder
I started The Disability Union because I believe the only way to further disability rights and increase inclusion is for all disabled people to work together and support each other to get our voices heard and our needs met.
Lauren Toovey
HR & Finance Manager
In 2020 we decided this wasn’t enough and we wanted to do more, and that’s when The Disability Union was born! I’m very excited to be working for The Disability Union and helping unite and support the disabled community.
KARLA FIDO
Chief Casework Engagement Manager & Liaison
I have hidden disabilities and have had to live through the judgemental attitudes of society.
I joined the union as a member in need of help and they helped me realise my voice was loud enough to not only help myself but others too.
I have training in equality and diversity, mental health, depression, and CBT and the life experiences of discrimination and battling and justifying a condition where I look ‘fine’ 90% of the time.
I’m passionate about helping others achieve what they deserve in life, regardless of whatever bumps are in the way.
Lisa Trotman
Casework Officer
Hi, I’m Lisa and I’m from sunny Southampton.
I have always had a passion for helping people, so when my daughter helped set up The Disability Union with George, I have always been interested in joining the team. Being a casework officer allows me to continue to do what I love – helping people!
When I’m not at work, you’ll probably find me at a concert or cat-sitting for my daughter while she’s on holiday!
Char Lowman
Sensory Superstars Manager
Hey I’m Char, I am the proud manager of Sensory Superstars, which is a wonderful play group run by The Disability Union whose main goal is to bring accessible, inclusive messy fun to children. We run two groups in Gosport and are excited to be bringing it to Chandler’s Ford as well.
I have worked in childcare for 11 years and I’ve had the privilege to look after people’s pride and joys whether it be as a nanny, a nursery senior, or a team leader. I have always been the one that doesn’t mind looking a bit silly and finding fun, creative ways to help nurture all those areas of children’s development. I think this is why I love running our group as I get to find new ways of capturing children’s imaginations, encouraging their explorations, and getting to see a smile on those faces as they experience something new. I also get to have a good old natter each week with so many lovely families and I enjoy building bonds with my little regulars.
My spare time, well I’m a mother of two boys so whether I have spare time is debatable! But we love walks, getting into nature, and arts and crafts.