Steve was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer earlier this year, sadly this is a particularly aggressive, cruel and quick cancer. Since his diagnosis in May, he was looked after and cared for by his NHS colleagues but sadly passed away on the morning of 25 August 2023.

A career dedicated to the NHS

Steve started his NHS career in 1995 at a large teaching hospital in Tyne and Wear. He has undertaken a number of roles within provider trusts, the Health Authority, and within primary and community care during this time. Steve has worked in Salford for the past 19 years, 15 of which he has lived in the city. He joined Salford CCG when it was first established as Chief Finance Officer and then took on the role as Deputy Chief Accountable Officer in 2016. In January 2020, he became Interim Chief Accountable Officer. Most recently, when the CCG became part of NHS Greater Manchester (GM), Steve served as Chief Delivery Officer until April this year.

Excellance in Salford

We all know Steve’s heart belonged in Salford. He was an outstanding NHS leader who was truly dedicated to his role and a huge advocate for Salford health and care system. Steve played an invaluable role in both the Salford Primary Care Trust and Salford CCG. Salford CCG was rated outstanding for five consecutive years, making it one of only two CCGs in the country to achieve the highest rating for five years running.

Salford CCG was ranked number one in the 2021 National NHS Staff Survey, with 95% of staff recommending it as a place to work (out of the 39 CCGs who took part in the survey). Salford’s long-standing high performing CCG was only achievable because of inspirational teamwork, including Steve’s formidable work ethic, relentless commitment to delivering excellent public services and his impressive leadership within health and care in our city.

Steve also made his mark across Greater Manchester, determinedly taking the lead on ambitious projects, and people sought him out from across GM to help with a wide range of work. This was because he was brilliant at his job and cared deeply about those around him and those he served.

Greatly missed by many

In Salford and Greater Manchester we have lost a true public servant, a great fellow citizen who has given so much to the city and city-region over his years of devotion to our much loved NHS. Steve epitomised the Spirt of Salford, was loved by many and will never be forgotten!

Distributing monies raised

Salford CVS will distribute all monies raised to good causes across the city, in accordance with the wishes of Steve’s family. It is hoped that some money will go towards a permanent physical memorial in Steve’s memory.

Steve was a great supporter of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector’s efforts to improve local health and wellbeing, making this fund a fitting tribute to a wonderful Salfordian.