CEO Update March 26

I would like to take this opportunity to share some important updates and positive news from able2achieve.

Since taking on the role of CEO in 2023, I have remained committed to honouring Rupert’s passion, vision and the values he embedded within able2achieve. As an organisation, we continue to build on this foundation and remain dedicated to supporting our learners and their families.

Our able2achieve team continues to evolve and grow. We are delighted to share the wonderful news that Emily, our Registered Manager and Deputy Director, and Joe, our Learning Centre Manager, have welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Lottie. They will be sharing maternity and paternity leave, which will help support continuity for our learners. Emily is expected to return full-time in June.

We are also very pleased to announce that Jane, Registered Manager and Deputy Director, is expecting a baby and will begin her maternity leave in July. We are thrilled for both families and wish them every happiness during this exciting time.

At the same time, we are saying a fond farewell to some valued members of our team. Linzi Mapstone, our Administration Manager, who has been with able2achieve since the early years, will be retiring. Linzi is looking forward to spending more time travelling with her husband, Rob. We would like to thank Linzi sincerely for her dedication and many years of commitment to able2achieve, and we wish them both many happy adventures ahead.

We would also like to congratulate Tiffany Bartlett, who will be starting a new role with Dorset Council. This is a wonderful opportunity for Tiffany, and we are proud to see her taking this next step in her career. After eight years with able2achieve she will be greatly missed, and we thank her for the significant contribution she has made to the organisation.

Looking ahead, there are some important national changes to renting and landlord legislation due to come into effect in April 2026. These changes aim to make renting safer, fairer and more secure. For example, landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid reason, rent increases will be limited to once per year, and there will be stronger rules around discrimination, housing standards and timely property repairs.

In relation to fees, local authorities have now confirmed their annual uplifts. Somerset Council has applied a 3.56% increase and Devon County Council a 3.56% increase. These adjustments will be reflected in April’s invoicing. If you receive direct payments, these should automatically be adjusted by your local authority. If you have any questions, please contact Becky Buxton in Accounts or Rob Sartin, Deputy Director for Services.

As able2achieve celebrates 16 years of operation, we remain committed to delivering our mission as a values-based organisation. I am incredibly proud of the achievements of both our staff and our learners, and we will continue to reflect on our services and make improvements to ensure the best possible support for those we work with.

Thank you for your continued support.

By Marika Elliott | 31 March 2026