Brightlingsea resident Michael Beckett, the former CEO of Colchester Foodbank, has joined welfare rights organisation DAWN – Disability Advice and Welfare Network – as its first CEO.

The Great Bromley-based community interest company says it in its first year it has has helped over a thousand people claim over £600,000 in benefits, set up support networks, and co-produced the Autism Education Leavers Passport.

Company founder Annie Sands, said: “We are delighted to welcome Michael to steer our response to the rapidly expanding need for our services. He brings expertise from his roles in mental health advocacy, legal advice and governance as well as over seven years combating poverty across Colchester and Tendring with award-winning charity Colchester Foodbank.”

Mr Beckett , who’s married to Brightlingsea vicar Caroline Beckett, said: “I am energised by DAWN’s vision and creativity. With neurodiversity and disability in my own family, this is a cause I am passionate about.”

For further information, and to download an Autism Passports, visit DAWN’s website.