New CEO for Step One charity's work in Torbay

A charity that supports people with disabilities and mental health issues across Torbay and South Devon has appointed a new CEO.

Ben Greaves impressed both service managers and trustees with his strong leadership skills and positive, practical attitude towards delivering Step One's mission.

Ben brings 20 years of experience from various leadership roles in the British Army, recently leading a team of 500 people across six sites in the UK and in 12 countries globally as a commanding officer and, as a result, has a deep experience of strategic planning and in-depth understanding of the importance of wellbeing in the post-pandemic era.

He left the army in 2020 and gained commercial experience at J.P. Morgan as well as charity experience as a trustee of a local mental health charity. This balance of experience and skills give Ben a unique blend of visionary leadership and a people-focused approach to mental health advocacy from which he will shape the future of Step One.

Ben said: “I am honoured to be joining the outstanding team at Step One Charity and I’m excited at the prospect of being part of the charity’s next chapter where, as a team, we can realise the phenomenal potential of the charity to support people with disabilities and mental health issues.”

Formerly St Loye’s, Step One has worked closely with Devon Partnership Trust, South Devon and Torbay CCG and Devon CCG (ICS) for many years providing community-based and crisis recovery services.

Step One's services include mental health crisis care and recovery and one-to-one mentoring in employment and independent living skills.

Working with a diverse range of people who may have a mental health issue and/or a hidden disability such as an autism spectrum condition, Step One staff work in the community and at their dedicated facilities, including an independent hospital and supported living residences.

Their approach is to consider a person’s wider wellbeing, examining any social context that could be affecting their mental health, their ability to work, or to be part of their community.

Sue Sutherland, chair of trustees at Step One, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ben Greaves as our new CEO. Ben is the ideal leader to champion and grow Step One’s incredible work across Devon in supporting people with a wide variety of needs to live more independently. During the interview process Ben demonstrated such a passion for the work of the charity and we look forward to seeing the organisation thrive under his leadership."

To find out more about Step One Charity, visit steponecharity.co.uk