New leadership to drive growth, equity, and a stronger voice for disabled people
As disability benefit reforms loom, The Disability Resource Centre has announced the appointment of Anne Bland as its new Chief Executive Officer. Anne joins the charity at a significant time, as national conversations around Personal Independence Payments (PIP) intensify and the demand for inclusive services continues to grow across Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes and beyond. Anne brings a powerful vision to expand The Disability Resource Centre’s reach, improve financial sustainability, and elevate its influence in advocacy for disabled people and unpaid carers.
Gillian Ormston, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said:
“Anne brings a rare mix of energy, compassion, and strategic clarity. Her leadership marks a bold new chapter for The Disability Resource Centre, and we’re excited to scale up our work and impact together. This is a significant moment for the charity, and we’re confident Anne is the right person to lead us forward.”
With over 30 years of trusted service, The Disability Resource Centre is a life-changing support hub for people with long-term conditions, disabilities, and caring responsibilities. Its services range from benefits advice and employment support to digital inclusion, skills development, and wellbeing programmes.
Anne Bland, CEO of The Disability Resource Centre, said:
“It’s a huge honour to join The Disability Resource Centre at such a critical time. I’ve been deeply moved by the organisation’s commitment to dignity, compassion, and community. My aim is to develop The Disability Resource Centre into a one-stop hub where our service users and their families can access the support, tools, and information they need to live fulfilling lives.”
The Trustees also extend their heartfelt thanks to Melanie Hawman, who is stepping down as the CEO after 13 years with DRC. Her leadership guided the charity through many changes, including the COVID-19 pandemic, when countless organisations were forced to close.
Gillian Ormston added: “We are immensely grateful for Melanie’s loyalty and dedication. She leaves behind a powerful legacy, and we wish her a joyful and well-earned retirement.”
Under Anne’s leadership, The Disability Resource Centre plans to:
- Revive the mobility equipment shop, lost to flooding in 2024
- Launch a new Accessibility and Innovation Hub and community Wellbeing Hubs to develop inclusive services
- Expand partnership work across health, education, care, and business sectors
- Amplify the voices of disabled people and carers in local and national policy
The Disability Resource Centre is an award-winning charity supporting disabled people, carers, and people with long-term health conditions across Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes. Founded in 1994, it offers support with benefits advice, employment, skills development, digital access, and wellbeing.
Its flagship, Wellbeing Hub, is based at the Mayfield Centre in Dunstable, with plans to replicate the model across the region. The Disability Resource Centre is actively recruiting volunteers and new trustees to help deliver its vision of a more inclusive and accessible society.
To support the work of The Disability Resource Centre please donate or volunteer or explore partnership opportunities, and visit our website homepage and news page for all the latest updates.
Phone: 01582 470 900
Email: info@drcbeds.org.uk
Open: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
