Debra Evans to Retire as Chief Executive of Disabled Living
After an incredible 29 years with Disabled Living—17 of them as Chief Executive—Debra Evans has announced her decision to retire.

Debra’s journey with Disabled Living began in 1996 as a Continence Service Information Officer for PromoCon (now Bladder & Bowel UK). In 2008, she became Chief Executive, leading the charity through significant growth and transformation. During this time, Disabled Living has expanded its services and strengthened its impact on the lives of disabled people, older adults and those with health conditions.

Debra’s time as Chief Executive also saw Disabled Living secure funding to develop Burrows House into a state-of-the-art Disabled Living Centre. She has overseen the expansion of the Bladder & Bowel UK and Adapt & Live services and was instrumental in growing the Kidz to Adultz exhibitions.

In 2009, a serious fire forced Disabled Living out of Redbank House for two years – one of the greatest challenges of Debra’s leadership. She guided the organisation through this difficult period, ensuring services continued uninterrupted. She then spearheaded the transformation of Redbank House into a thriving training and sensory centre, turning adversity into an opportunity for growth.

Always looking ahead, Debra has championed innovation, leading to the development of Hilight—an innovative digital tool that reimagines occupational therapy assessments to be more person-centred and efficient. Her commitment to listening to the people Disabled Living supports has driven the organisation to continuously evolve and improve its services.

Debra said: “After 29 years at Disabled Living and 17 years as Chief Executive, I have decided to retire. It is the right time for our amazing organisation—and for me—to move on and start the next chapter.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with so many passionate people and incredible partners. One of the most rewarding parts of my role has been hearing people say, ‘You’ve changed my life’—something that’s said every day at Disabled Living. Listening has always been at the heart of what we do, and I’ve met some of the most amazing people along the way. Being involved across all our services, developing innovative projects, and working with companies and individuals to support older people, disabled people, and those with health conditions has been an incredible journey.

“Now, travel is high on the agenda, along with hobbies, leisurely lunches, catching up with all those people you never have time to meet when you’re working, and whatever else presents itself.”

Debra will be passing the reins to Sonya Carassik Ratty, who has been recruited by the Board of Trustees as the successive Chief Executive. Sonya has been with Disabled Living since 2021 as Strategy & Partnerships Manager.

Sonya says: “Debra’s forward-thinking and resilient approach has transformed the organisation under her leadership. She has brought unwavering dedication to the mission to help people live with independence, comfort and dignity.

“Debra has been a true champion of the Disabled Living team, and we will all be sad to see her go. However, she has created a remarkable legacy. I am excited to continue the organisation’s development to best support our service users in the complex challenges they face today.”