Thanks to our trustees!
It’s trustees week this week and it’s a time for us to celebrate the achievements of nearly one million trustees across the UK. This week is a national celebration of the trustees who contribute their time and skills to help charities thrive across the UK.
At Sycamore Trust UK, we are fortunate to have a dedicated and engaged trustee board, and it has undergone a few changes recently, with a number of new board members in 2025.
One of our new trustees is Danny French, who has been involved with us at Sycamore for a number of years. Romford resident Danny is a passionate champion for the autistic community, and he will bring more lived experience of autism to our trustee board.
He said; “That's one of the reasons why I wanted to join the board of trustees, because it's always helpful to have someone that is living, breathing and working with autism. I also hope that I can help with the financial difficulties that the autistic community may potentially face in terms of applying for benefits I really want to help the autistic community in my locality to thrive in life.”
Danny first introduced himself to us when he visited the Autism Hub over a decade ago and has since been involved in various steering groups, peer groups and advisory boards, so this is a natural step up for him. And he knows how important Sycamore is to the local autistic community.
He said; “Sycamore brings a sense of value, and a sense of belonging. For the Havering autistic community, it’s important to know that Sycamore has got your back, is in your corner and will fight to ensure your voice is heard. That is hugely reassuring to know that there is an organisation that will fight for us.”
Maryam Berhane has also joined our board of trustees in 2025, but she came to use via a different route.
Maryam Berhane
She said; “I discovered my passion for developmental psychology while studying for my psychology degree, which sparked a deep interest in neurodivergence and complex autism. This led me to a career in special education, where I’ve been fortunate to work closely with neurodiverse children and young people.”
However, the turning point for Maryam was when she attended a Sycamore workshop. She explained; “Attending a Sycamore Trust training session was a turning point for me . I was inspired by the trainers lived experiences of autism and the genuine impact of their work. After learning more about the Trust’s amazing community initiatives, I felt compelled to get involved and am proud to now serve as a trustee, supporting its mission to empower autistic individuals and their families.”
We’d like to say a big thank you to all our trustees for their commitment to the cause. Long may it continue!
Danny French
Our Trustees
Chris Hobson - Chair
Phil Allum - Treasurer
Ramandeep Basson - Trustee
Terry Hurley - Trustee
Richard George - Trustee
Nina Kandola - Trustee
Maryam Berhane - Trustee
Danny French - Trustee