Steve has extensive personal experiences of mental illness, including periods of depression, suicide attempts, and hospitalisation. He has a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder and Complex PTSD- the result of psychological abuse in his early years through to adulthood.

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Steve was recognised in the 2019 Queens Birthday Honours List and appointed OBE for services to mental health.

 

Steve works with a range of leading national & regional organisations, to develop policy and scrutinise programmes of work. He has a strong focus on developing lived experience leadership and reducing inequalities.

 

Appointed as a Vice-Chair for the Independent Mental Health Act Review Steve supported the chair in making recommendations to the Government. He chaired the Service User and Carer group, and co-chaired the black African Caribbean working group. 

 

Steve worked alongside Sir Norman Lamb to develop the Thrive West Midlands programme.

 

Steve is a Trustee for Mind (National) and the Association of Mental Health Providers.