Nottingham Contemporary

Communities Inc is about helping people to make connections that builds a sense of community in any environment. Communities are then better able to tackle common problems, to provide mutual support and to work together for a positive future with shared values.

Dr Blandine French FHEA (she/her) is a senior research fellow for School of psychology and Institute of Mental Health at the University of Nottingham. Blandine works in clinical and research environments with parents, children and young people with neurodevelopmental disorders. Blandine has developed and evaluated an online educational tool coproduced with GPs to increase their awareness of ADHD which has since been endorsed by the Royal College of GPs. Her current fellowship is evaluating the risks and costs of undiagnosed autism and/or ADHD. Blandine also has lived-experience of having children with neurodevelopment disorders and having received a diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood.

Peter Bonnell (he/him) has 22 years’ experience as a professional curator, producer, project manager and senior leader. Since January 2025 he has been Executive Director at disabled-led visual arts organisation DASH. Peter was diagnosed with autism in 2021 and has a specific interest in exploring opportunities to support Disabled, Neurodivergent, and Deaf creatives. Across his career, Peter has curated and produced close to 200 exhibitions, including managing numerous commissions, and producing many related publications, talks and events. His artistic practice, focusing on photography, although deeply personal seeks to offer an observational understanding of the autistic condition.

Karen Aspley (she/her) is the Community Engagement and Fundraising Manager at Nottingham Mencap. She is part of The Nottinghamshire Independent Advisory Group - a strategic group that seeks to improve two-way communications between Nottinghamshire Police and the diverse communities of Nottingham City and the County of Nottinghamshire, chairing their disabled and neurodiverse subgroup.

Steph Hubble (she/her) is the Chief Operations Officer for Autistic Nottingham. Steph manages a team of service coordinators across a variety of disciplines within the 3rd sector of health and social care. Every day, Autistic Nottingham make a difference to many autistic adults' lives.

Charlotte Throssel is the CEO of Disability Support Nottingham. Charlotte write policies, procedures and bids. She is Disability Support Nottingham’s safeguarding lead and offers overarching support for all staff, service delivery and Disability Equality Act advice. Charlotte also recruit volunteers and talk to the press.

Leigh Woosey (he/them) is a graphic designer and activist. He is Disability Campaigns Officer for Unite Community Nottingham and leads Peer Support Sessions for Neurodivergent folk across the East Midlands. Leigh has also provided policy writing and consultation for Neuro-affirming Workplaces and anti-bullying training in the Tabletop games industry.

Maxine Spry heads up fundraising at United Response. She developed the Our Life Stories project, securing its partnerships and funding. With a PhD in Early Modern History, she now specialises in oral history, co-production and amplifying lived experience through research and storytelling.

Kelly Gibson is one of United Response’s Our Life Stories interviewees. In her interview, Kelly reflects on the importance of friendships, her late diagnosis, and how the right support can transform everyday life. Her full interview will be available at the British Library later this year, preserving her story as part of the national oral history collection.

Squish Studios are a group of second year animation students from Nottingham Trent University.