Step One Charity Appoints New Chair of Trustees

Lorna Collingwood-Burke joins Step One at a time when more people than ever are relying on community-based mental health support, and when closer collaboration between health and social care services across Devon has never been more important.  

Lorna brings more than 40 years of experience across public service, private enterprise, and consultancy. Trained as a nurse and midwife in the UK and later worked in Canada, she went on to build a distinguished leadership career in Devon. Prior to retiring in 2019, she served as Chief Nursing Officer and Interim Deputy Chief Executive for NHS Devon, leading on patient safety, safeguarding, equality, clinical risk and governance. 

Since retiring, she has continued to support the sector through non-executive director roles and mentoring, with a strong focus on staff wellbeing and organisational leadership. 

Commenting on her appointment, Lorna said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at Step One Charity and look forward to supporting the Board, Senior Leadership Team and the charity in its continued impact across Devon, particularly at such an important time for community-based mental health services.” 

Chief Executive Officer, Derek Blackford, added: “Lorna’s leadership experience and shared values make her an excellent fit for Step One. Our work is rooted in a person-centred approach, and her commitment to compassionate, inclusive care will help us continue to put people first in everything we do. We are grateful to Anna Jay from Public Leaders Appointments for her support throughout the recruitment process and in securing such a strong appointment.” 

The appointment reflects Step One’s commitment to strong leadership, responsible growth and continuing to make a meaningful difference in the communities it serves.