About Us

Enable CEO

Sean Pontin

Enable CEO, Sean Pontin, is a qualified Social Worker with over 25 years’ experience, and is a familiar face to many in the health and social care sector, having bought his drive and passion to various roles since coming to Jersey in 2006. Sean joined Enable in March 2021 and is steering the charity in a new and exciting direction, offering different services in different ways.

Sean says. ‘I want to be able to make a genuine difference to everyone in our community and I feel that same passion from the rest of the team and our board. I am excited about what we can do together, making significant and tangible difference to the lives of people with disabilities and increasing understanding of how disabled islanders can live, learn and work as independently as they choose.

Chairperson

Clair Cousins

My father was an active supporter of Enable Jersey and I became involved to ensure his passion continues. As an outgoing and active lady, I’ve been thrilled to see the variety of sports and activities that becoming accessible for all in Jersey. Skiing is ‘my thing’ and if I’m not on the slopes, you can find me lazing on a beach in the sunshine.

I love meeting new people and believe everyone deserves a fair shot at living the life they want to, with barriers opened up and a variety of options providing the spice.

Five things I couldn’t live without are my animals, my family, my friends, my sense of humour and my love of life. Life is meant for living shouldn’t be a journey to the grave where we arrive safely in a pretty and well-preserved body. I intend to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!”

Honorary Secretary

Helen Whale

I became Honorary Secretary in May 2018 after deciding I would like to get involved with a worthwhile cause. Enable Jersey has given me the opportunity to learn more about issues facing the disabled and be part of a charity that is committed to overcoming these problems and creating an equal society.

I am married with two grown up children and during the week I work in a small accountancy practice. In my spare time I attempt to keep fit by going to a Body Pump class and running (slowly) round Queens Valley.

Honorary Treasurer

Donna Mitchell

Donna has been looking for a volunteering opportunity since she came back to Jersey from Cyprus a couple of years ago. She has previously held the roles of Treasurer and Secretary for Limassol Toastmasters – a club devoted to helping people from all walks of life improve their public speaking skills and confidence.  

Donna possesses all the skills and knowledge needed to support Enable with its financial management. Motivated by doing a good job and helping others, Donna says it is the potential Enable has to help those with different abilities to get as much benefit from living in Jersey as possible that excites her.

When not at work she swims in the sea as often as she can. She also enjoys walking with her two dogs and riding her Ducati scrambler. Her other hobbies include reading, music, science fiction, and real science.

 Also a bit of a foodie, our mouths were watering when Donna told us her favourite meal, “Cypriot meze or Dim sum: Har Gau (king prawn dumplings) with a side of tender stem broccoli in sesame sauce, followed by seafood platter (oysters, chancre crab to pick) with a French stick and homemade mayonnaise, Jersey royals in parsley and butter.  For dessert, I’d have Emma Carlton’s exquisite sticky toffee pudding with a generous helping of Jersey cream.”

Committee Member

Jacinta Krigu

Jacinta is a long-time member of Enable who got involved at committee level more years ago than she cares to remember.

A fan of a glass of rose over a nice lunch, Jacinta is one spicy lady who loves a natter, a good giggle, and a dance. Not much stops Jacinta except her deep-rooted fear of spiders.

Born in New Zealand, Jacinta would love nothing more than to get herself back there to retire by the beach.

Committee Member

Lesley Bratch

I have devoted the last thirty years to bringing up my four children – three girls and one boy. My youngest daughter is wheelchair bound, has learning disabilities and her health is affected by numerous problems. Despite this she enjoys life to the full.

My passion for supporting people who have disabilities comes from the highs and lows we have encountered along the way, from the many families we have met and friends we have made. My hope is that together we can work towards EVERYONE having access to a fulfilled and meaningful life.

Committee Member

Andrew Phillipou

Andrew grew up on the East Coast of South Africa, immigrating to the UK in 2003. Andrew attended the prestigious Kearsney College, where he played rugby, cricket and swam.

In 2003, while at university, Andrew was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition which continues to affect his gait, motor skills and balance. This diagnosis did not prevent him from finishing his degree and to-date, it hasn’t affected his achievements, attitude or work ethic.

A highly-regarded accountant and director, Andrew is excited to explore how Enable can help make meaningful employment a reality for more of the island’s population with different abilites.