After many dedicated years, Ian Colbridge is stepping down as a trustee of Aspens. Ian, a finalist for Trustee of the Year at the 2024 Kent Charity Awards, has been a cornerstone of the charity since 1990.  

We celebrated Ian’s service with an evening event held at our Bluebell Cafe, along with the Tunbridge Wells Mayor, Councillor Nancy Warne, current and former Aspens team members and trustees, supporters, and friends. 

Ian and his wife, Rosemary, who have an autistic daughter, have always been passionate about improving the lives of autistic individuals and those with learning disabilities. Their advocacy began early on, with Rosemary famously writing to then-Deputy Minister for Education, Margaret Thatcher, to demand better schooling provisions for children with learning disabilities. At the time, only nine schools across the country could provide the necessary support.

Ian’s journey with Aspens began in 1990 when he joined Homes for Able Autistic Adults, inspired by his connection with Rosemary and her daughter, Rebecca, who was supported by the charity. Over the years, Ian took on several trustee roles, including at Homes for Able Autistic Adults and later at Aspens following the charity’s mergers with Pepenbury and Autism Sussex.

Ian’s contributions have been invaluable. Drawing from his extensive experience as an engineer, his time serving in the Scots Guards, and his career in office administration, Ian brought a wealth of knowledge to Aspens. One of his early projects was commissioning the design and construction of a supported living residence in Erith, helping autistic adults and those with learning disabilities live more independently.

Throughout his time with Aspens, Ian and Rosemary have been champions of the charity—as parents, volunteers, trustees, and friends. Ian has provided steady guidance through many challenges and the charity’s significant growth, playing an instrumental role in shaping its vision for a more inclusive society.

In addition to his trustee role, Ian has also been a member of the Finance subcommittee and a key figure in the ‘Friends of’ fundraising groups, helping to ensure Aspens’ long-term growth and sustainability. Today, Aspens supports over 40 properties across the South-East, providing care to hundreds of children, adults, and families.

Ian remains a vocal advocate for Aspens and continues to introduce new supporters to the charity. His tireless commitment was evident when he and Rosemary supported Aspens at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, welcoming visitors to The Natural Affinity Garden for Aspens.

As Ian steps down, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy. His leadership, lived experience, and commitment have profoundly impacted Aspens and the families they support. While no longer a trustee, Ian continues to be a valued supporter and advisor, ensuring the charity’s mission endures for years to come. 

Ian said: “It has been a pleasure being connected with Aspens and its predecessors over the years. It has been wonderful to see the charity grow from one small service to now provide support to thousands. It has been a privilege to be part of this journey and to see doors open for many more families and individuals in a similar situation to us, helping them to live life to its full potential.”

Adrian Batchelor, Aspens Chair of Trustees said: “Ian has been a pillar of strength and wisdom for Aspens over the years. Ian’s blend of professional expertise and personal experience as a parent has been invaluable in shaping our services and guiding us through some of the most challenging periods. We are incredibly grateful for all Ian has done and are delighted he will continue to support us as we move forward.”

Robert Shanahan, Aspens CEO, said: “On behalf of Aspens I’d like to extend our deepest gratitude to Ian for his incredible dedication and commitment to our charity over the years. His steadying hand has provided fellow volunteers, trustees and employees with a wealth of experience and a unique perspective based on decades of work across the charity and as someone with ‘lived experience’ caring for his daughter along with his wider family.”