Chair of Stepping Stone Projects awarded MBE in King’s Birthday Honours list

Posted: 15 June 2024 10:35 pm.

We're delighted to share that our chair of trustees at Stepping Stone Projects, has been awarded an MBE for her service to the community and leadership in the charity sector.

Sue Ashby has been chair of the board of Stepping Stone Projects for 25 years and a trustee for 26 years.

Alongside her role as chair, Sue has worked as an accountant for 40 years and has been the Finance Director of her current company for 23 years, retiring this month.

Originally from Northampton, Sue grew up in Surrey and moved to Greater Manchester following completing her degree in Leeds and has stayed in the area ever since.

Sue's journey with Stepping Stone Projects began while working for the Chamber of Commerce in Rochdale. Initially joining as a trustee, she eventually stepped into the role of chair.

Under her leadership, Stepping Stone Projects expanded its reach and the services offered across the North West, providing quality accommodation and support to vulnerable individuals.

Sue's legacy at Stepping Stone Projects is marked by the strong relationships she has built with staff and trustees. Their shared commitment has made trustee meetings a source of inspiration and motivation throughout the organisation.

When Sue joined Stepping Stone Projects, the charity had just 38 supported homes. It has now expanded to become one of the largest homelessness charities in the North West, providing c800 homes across the region with another 64 homes currently in development and supporting over 1000 people at any one time

Sue Ashby MBE, chair of the board at Stepping Stone Projects said:

"I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. While this is an individual award, our achievements over the years have truly been a team effort and a result of the hard work and commitment of everyone at Stepping Stone Projects.

It has been a privilege to work alongside such dedicated staff and trustees, and to witness the positive impact we have on the lives of so many as we have grown as an organisation.”

“We were recently awarded Gold Standard from Investors in People for workplace standards, and I’m incredibly proud of my friends and colleagues who are so united in our aim to provide quality housing and get people the support they need”

Dave Smith, chief executive at Stepping Stone Projects said:

“Sue’s excellent leadership and oversight have guided Stepping Stone Projects successfully through difficult times over the years, and her dedication to helping the most vulnerable in society is a source of inspiration to us all.

“If added up, the number of people supported over Sue’s leadership throughout the years would be around 15,000 people, which is an incredible figure and a hugely impressive contribution.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Sue for her many years of service as chair and the impact she has had, so it’s wonderful to see her recognised in this way.”

Sue's MBE serves as a recognition of her invaluable contributions and the lasting impact of her work over the years. Stepping Stone Projects congratulates Sue on this well-deserved award.

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