Our Team
From Children’s Services to Adult Outreach – whatever your query or if you require specific help, click here to find out who is the best person for you to contact at Carlisle Mencap.
Rhys Toone CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Rhys joined Carlisle Mencap in January 2025 as Chief Executive Officer.
Joanna BazydloHEAD OF FINANCE
I'm Joanna and I am the Finance Manager. I joined the Carlisle Mencap in May 2024, and I am responsible for the overall finance of the company. I have several years of experience in various financial sectors. Including banking sector, commercial and almost 10 years’ experience in the charity sector. Joanna.Bazydlo@carlislemencap.co.uk
Sonia McMillanHEAD OF PEOPLE & PROCESS
Hello, I'm Sonia and I'm Head of People & Process at Carlisle Mencap. I was previously an insurance broker for 38 years and joined the charitable sector in 2020. I've been with Carlisle Mencap since January 2023 and the best part of my job is being part of a team that is helping people in the community with Learning Disabilities to feel connected and valued. Sonia.McMillan@carlislemencap.co.uk
Jenny BellREGISTERED MANAGER - CALIFORNIA HOUSE
Hi, I'm Jenny and I'm the Registered Manager at California House, which is our adult respite. I started my journey with Carlisle Mencap in 2013 as a support worker then took up a post as a Social Worker for adults before returning to Carlisle Mencap in 2017 to take up a management position. The best part of my job is spending time with service users, providing them with opportunities and developing relationships with families. Jenny.Bell@carlislemencap.co.uk
Michelle ThompsonREGISTERED MANAGER - DOMICILIARY CARE
Hi, I'm Michelle and I am the Registered Manager for Domiciliary Care. I directly manage our Supported Living houses and Adult Outreach. I have worked for Carlisle Mencap since 2009 but started my career in Learning Disabilities at 17 years old. The best part of my job is advocating for service users to ensure that they have the best possible opportunities to live their best life. Michelle.Thompson@carlislemencap.co.uk
Hannah McNamaraSERVICE MANAGER - GRACE LITTLE CENTRE
Hi, I'm Hannah and I have oversight of The Grace Little Centre and the sessions that take place there. This includes Children's Services and Adult Day Opportunities. I also manage the Children's Outreach team. I joined Carlisle Mencap in 2016. The best part of my job is being able to run a variety of sessions that increase social inclusion for vulnerable individuals locally. Hannah.Mcnamara@carlislemencap.co.uk
Wendy WilsonHEAD OF QUALITY & COMPLIANCE
Wendy is Head of Quality & Compliance across all Services.
