The Founder

Finn Shortman

I’m Finn Shortman, Founder and CEO of Compassion Crew. At 23, I’m a father, a family man, and have been self-employed since leaving high school.

I entered disability support by chance while working as a personal trainer, after a client asked me to support them outside the gym. That experience quickly became a passion. Building genuine relationships, supporting independence, and becoming a trusted part of someone’s life showed me the real impact quality support can have.

It also showed me that this level of care wasn’t the norm. After hearing consistent concerns from participants, I founded Compassion Crew to deliver independent, consistent, reliable, and safe support—driven by true participant choice and control.Font

Our Team

Lexe Bolland

Hi, I’m Lexe. I currently support a participant every Monday, and my passion for disability support comes from growing up alongside an immediate family member living with ASD and other developmental disabilities. This experience drives my commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Outside of work, I enjoy music, being creative, spending time outdoors, and having a good laugh.

Interests:
Cooking & baking • Arts & crafts • Outdoor activities • Shopping • Music • Friendly conversation

Charlie Gates

Hi, I’m Charlie. I’m passionate about all things music—I study music at university, write and create my own work, and occasionally perform live. While I’m new to the support industry, I’ve completed hands-on, participant-led training through Compassion Crew.

I’m laid back, enjoy getting outdoors, and love staying active.

Interests:
Music • Gaming • Outdoor activities • Sports • American football

Mara Ortlieb

Hi, I’m Mara. I’m a dedicated disability support worker with over four years of experience delivering high-quality, person-centred care. I’m passionate about supporting daily living, encouraging independence, and creating a safe, nurturing environment where participants feel genuinely supported.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time in nature, getting creative, and relaxing with casual gaming.

Interests:
Gardening • Hiking • Cooking & baking • Crocheting • Painting • Gaming

Lewis

Hi, I’m Lewis. I’ve worked closely with a range of participants and find disability support both meaningful and rewarding. My experience includes supporting people living with MS and individuals with high-level ASD, where patience, consistency, and understanding are essential.

Before support work, my background was in horticulture and gardening sales, which shaped my hands-on, practical approach.

Interests:
Gardening • Hiking • Gaming • Cars • Nature • Outdoor adventures

Jonathon (Jono) Daniels

Hi, I’m Jono. I have experience supporting people with ASD and other differently wired brains, and I understand how much gentleness and consistency can positively impact someone’s life. I also have personal experience helping care for a family member with lower motor neuron disease.

While new to the disability sector, I’ve completed participant-led training shifts and bring a practical background in IT, landscaping, and automotive work, with a strong interest in supporting life skills where appropriate.

Interests:
Cars • Gym • Animals • Movies & anime • Adventures