A healthcare company will create 100 jobs when it opens its new neurological and complex trauma rehabilitation centre in Sheffield next month.
STEPS Rehabilitation Limited has built a state-of-the art facility to deliver intensive therapy to people who have survived a stroke, spinal, brain, orthopaedic or other complex trauma.
The purpose-built development is designed to help adult patients reach their full rehab potential, and includes 23 ensuite bedrooms, a rehabilitation gym, a stainless-steel hydrotherapy pool and a café.
The centre, which has been under construction for the last year, will create approximately 100 new full and part time jobs including nurses, therapists and catering staff.
STEPS has received business support and advice from the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub, and has been supported by a £490,000 grant from the Regional Growth Fund (RGF), administered by the Sheffield City Council.
Ray Boulger, chairman of STEPS, said: “Now we are getting close to opening, everyone in the team is really excited to be able to welcome our first patients through the door. Not only will we create 100 jobs this year, but we’ve also built a centre that will be comfortable and homely and provide patients with a relaxed and enjoyable experience throughout their rehabilitation.
“The original concept of the centre was the idea of my two daughters, and being able to be involved with them in the design process, procuring the funding and in the development of the centre has been a hugely rewarding experience.
“The RGF grant and business support received from the Growth Hub allowed us to push forward with our plans, and I now feel extremely proud to stand in front of such a modern and needed facility.”
The company, which will specialise in neurological and multiple trauma rehabilitation, was set up in March 2015, after the directors realised there was nowhere in Sheffield to send patients for this type of intensive neurological rehabilitation.
The new 26,000 sq ft centre is based on part of the site of the former Jacobs Manufacturing Company premises on Troutbeck Road, off Abbeydale Road South, and will officially open its doors to patients in March.
Ray said: “Our research showed a strong need for a dedicated rehabilitation centre for working age adults who have suffered orthopaedic and neurological trauma.
“The creation of the new centre will be a major boost to patients, who will no longer have to deal with the stresses and strains of travelling many miles from their family and support network to receive the care and rehabilitation they need with all the therapies they require under one roof.”
To ensure the best possible rehabilitation outcomes, STEPS is teaming up with both Sheffield Hallam University and University of Sheffield on Research and Development. The company is also working with the Stroke Association, Headway, and other key charities to achieve the highest level of recovery.
STEPS has been given business support from the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub to explore and identify key areas of support which are available to them. Working with their growth specialist, the company has looked at future support and innovation, Sheffield City Region Skills Bank and graduate recruitment through the RISE programme.
Andy Sorsby, business growth specialist for the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub, said: “We’re delighted to have supported STEPS, who are continuously looking for new ways to develop and provide the best service for its patients.
“They’re clearly a forward-thinking company whose new rehab centre will be welcomed by patients from across the city and beyond.”
Notes to editor:
Attached photograph shows Ray Boulger with one of his daughters, Jules Leahy, managing director.
The Sheffield City Region Growth Hub offers access to business support, working collaboratively with regional and national support programmes, as well as working with local authorities and private sector business to ensure consistent access to the best advice from the region.
For more information about STEPS Rehabilitation Limited visit http://www.stepsrehabilitation.co.uk/ or call Kathryn Coleman 07736 799984.
Additional media contact: Luke Marino on 01226 766900 or luke@capitalbmedia.co.uk