Since 2005, the Cerebra Innovation Centre (CIC) has transformed the lives of over 3,000 families, proving that ‘designing to enable’ can unlock a world of adventure for disabled children. This month we mark a significant milestone as we bid a heartfelt goodbye to its founding leader, Dr Ross Head, and welcome Gerallt Devonald as the new Senior Design and Innovation Manager.
A Legacy of Innovative Design
Under Dr Ross Head’s 20-year leadership, the CIC has evolved from a humble, empty office into a formidable force for change. The team have helped so many children discover and engage with the world around them designing and building everything from supportive seats and sensory drums to specialist kayaks and bike trailers, allowing children with complex neurological conditions to surf, ski, and even compete in triathlons.
As the face of CIC, Ross has championed inclusive design at 10 Downing Street, the House of Lords, and through numerous appearances on BBC Breakfast and ITV News.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Ross Head said:
“Normal jobs do not give so many incredible experiences – leading CIC has been phenomenal. We showed that ‘design to enable’ is far better than ‘design for disability.’ I am so proud of what we have achieved; it is time to spread my wings and solve new problems. I am really looking forward to following CIC’s progression and growth, and seeing what wonderful products the team continues to make”.
A New Chapter for Innovation
Stepping into the leadership role is Gerallt Devonald, who joined the CIC as a Product Designer in 2011. With 14 years of experience at Cerebra, Gerallt brings a deep commitment to creating thoughtful, practical solutions that foster inclusion.
Gerallt Devonald, Senior Design and Innovation Manager, said:
“I’m excited to be stepping into the role of Senior Design and Innovation Manager at the Cerebra Innovation Centre. Over the past 14 years I’ve had the privilege of working on many projects that have enhanced the lives of children and their families. Seeing the real-world impact of this work, like designing the wheelchair that enabled Poppy to take part in a triathlon, has shaped my commitment to innovation. I’m proud to build on the foundations Ross has established and lead the next chapter of CIC’s work.”
Jess Camburn Rahmani, Chief Executive at Cerebra, added:
“We are sad to say goodbye to our incredible colleague Dr. Ross Head who is moving on from Cerebra after 20 inspirational years leading our Innovation Centre. His work has changed the landscape of design for disabled children. The wonderful team at the Cerebra Innovation Centre will develop his legacy of designing and making beautiful, stylish equipment under the leadership and guidance of Gerallt Devonald. The team’s passion for good design will continue to bring joy and adventure to hundreds of children and their families” .
Tributes from the Families
The impact of the CIC is best heard through the voices of those they serve:
Imogen and Catherine: “Thanks for all the stuff that you’ve done with us and all the independence and fun you’ve given Imogen and all the other children you’ve worked with”
Read Imogen’s triathlon and Pen-Y-Fan stories.
Henry and Shevonne: “Thank you so much for everything you’ve made for us, for Henry to be able to cycle, to scoot, to carry his backpack. You’ve literally been amazing”.
Read Henry’s story. Henry also joined us for Relay Your Way last year, and featured on BBC’s The One Show!
Rob and Poppy: “Pops and I would just like to thank you for what you’ve done for us… you got involved, you listened, you were crazy enough to think that it was a good idea for us to do a triathlon. And my word, what an experience, what a difference you’ve made to Poppy’s life and mine and our family. We’ll never forget it. Thank you.”
Read Poppy’s story.
You can find more stories about the many other children Ross and the CIC team have helped here.
Dear Ross and Cerebra
We are incredibly grateful for the incredibly imaginative innovations you invented for my daughter Enna Thea. I hope you enjoy whatever you are moving onto next, and I think you have built up a great team who can step in,
Best wishes
Catherine Yass, mum of Enna Thea who you made a skating carriage for, a harness for me to carry her walker, and a fabulous daybed for after her spinal fusion.