Based in Bristol, I help employers and neurodivergent, chronically unwell, and disabled people put the right support in place to create inclusive workplaces and keep people in work.
I know from experience how overwhelming it can be to navigate workplace adjustments, funding options, and support schemes. I’ve been on both sides – receiving support myself and helping others access what they need. Now, I use that insight to make the process simpler for businesses and individuals, ensuring people get the adjustments and support they need so they can do their jobs effectively.
I am an OCN Level 4 certified Workplace Needs Assessor. This accreditation recognises my expertise in carrying out thorough assessments and providing clear, actionable recommendations to ensure individuals and organisations can make the best use of Access to Work support.
I serve as a Trustee with the BDEF (Bristol Disability and Equality Forum), supporting the charity’s mission to amplify the voices of Disabled people and promote equality and inclusion. In this role, I contribute to strategic oversight, governance, and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
I thought I’d spend my whole career in the public sector – I loved my job, my colleagues, and had big plans for the future.
But life had other ideas. I developed Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and despite trying every reasonable adjustment we could think of – reduced hours, remote working, flexible schedules – it wasn’t enough.
My manager and I had no idea that additional support was available, so we were left figuring it out alone.
After more than a year on sick leave, I had no choice but to take ill-health retirement at 31. If I’d had the right support, I truly believe I’d still be there today.
Before I left, I set up a network for colleagues with fatigue-related conditions. It quickly grew into a vital support system, showing me just how many people were struggling in silence.
That was my lightbulb moment.
Now, I help disabled individuals stay in work and support employers in building inclusive workplaces – because no one should have to leave a job they love (and are capable of doing) due to a lack of support or awareness.
People do their best work when they can show up as themselves. But too often, employees feel pressured to mask – hiding pain, fatigue, or neurodivergence just to fit in.
At Sycamore Disability and Business, I help employers create workplaces where people don’t have to hide who they are to be accepted. Inclusion isn’t about forcing people to fit a mould – it’s about giving them the right support to do their jobs effectively.
Compassion is at the core of everything I do – for individuals and the workplaces that support them. Disabled people face a lot of ‘shoulds’ – they should cope, should ask for help, should get better.
But real inclusion isn’t about ‘shoulds’ – it’s about removing barriers. I help employers create respectful, supportive workplaces, ensuring disabled employees get the adjustments they need without judgement.
Honesty and transparency are at the heart of my work. I provide straightforward advice, clear signposting to free resources, and realistic expectations about what we can achieve together.
If I believe you, or your team are better supported elsewhere – whether due to budget or expertise – I’ll always point you in the right direction. Your trust is precious, and I strive to honour it in all our interactions.
Support means offering practical help and understanding guidance, knowing that everyone’s challenges are unique. While I may not fully understand every individual struggle, I am committed to listening, learning, and providing the help you need.
Whether it’s navigating workplace adjustments, securing funding, or managing daily business tasks, my goal is to ensure you have the support and resources you need.
Everyone on my team is hand-picked and supported through regular training and supervision from me, so you can be confident you’re getting consistent, high-quality support.
While you may choose to work directly with one of my team members, I stay involved throughout – and if you ever have questions, concerns, or feedback, you’re always welcome to get in touch with me directly.
Mel is an independent Access to Work & PIP adviser, support worker and Virtual Assistant to disabled business owners, based in South Wales.
She supports me here at Sycamore Disability and Business with the AtW Claimants Advice Sessions.
When she isn't working you’ll find her rewatching her comfort shows with a lap full of cats, laughing with her niblings or sewing something unique.
Stacey is an independent Access to Work adviser, support worker and VA for neurodivergent and disabled business owners.
At Sycamore Disability and Business she supports our Advice Sessions, focusing specifically on challenging decisions and preparing reconsideration requests. Reconsiderations are where Stacey excels - she has a sharp eye for gaps, a clear and confident way of challenging decisions, and a commitment to fighting for fair outcomes.When she isn’t championing clients, she’s surrounded by her dogs, rabbits and chinchillas, enjoying a life full of fluff and joyful chaos.
I'm Alice and I created Sycamore Disability and Business to support disabled individuals, their employers and providers of assistive services understand how to navigate the Access to Work scheme, Reasonable Adjustments and disability inclusion at work.
I take the lead on all my work, except for where it is clearly stated that there is a choice of who to work with.
In my spare time you'll find me napping with my cat, reading or obsessively learning a new skill (soon to be put down and forgotten about).
Member of the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA)
As a member of BATA, Sycamore Disability and Business is part of a recognised network of assistive technology professionals. This supports ongoing knowledge, best practice, and access to up-to-date developments within the sector.
Member of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
Sycamore Disability and Business is a member of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), a UK organisation supporting small businesses and the self-employed. This provides access to practical business resources, legal and financial guidance, and ongoing support to ensure the business operates effectively and sustainably.
Member of the Business Disability Forum (BDF)
Sycamore Disability and Business is a member of the Business Disability Forum (BDF), a leading organisation focused on disability inclusion in the workplace. This reflects a commitment to inclusive practice and provides access to specialist advice, resources and a wider network working to remove barriers for disabled people.
Member of the British Association of Supported Employment (BASE)
Sycamore Disability and Business is a member of the British Association of Supported Employment (BASE), which promotes inclusive employment for disabled people and those facing disadvantage. This supports ongoing professional development and access to training, guidance and best practice in inclusive recruitment and employment.