Learning disability charity Hft has appointed Steve Veevers as its permanent chief executive.

He joins this month after a brief stint as interim CEO from November last year.

Veevers has more than 25 years’ experience in the health and social care sector including a year from September 2022 as managing director of independent care and support company Care Dorset.

“I am looking forward to supporting the charity to continue delivering against the pioneering spirit of the founding families to do more and better for learning disabled adults with the same grace and determination that I’ve seen demonstrated across our care and support teams,” said Veevers.

He added: “I’ve had the privilege of working for people who draw upon care and support throughout my career and I’m delighted to be joining and serving Hft as its CEO at a crucial time in its history.

“It’s clear that social care is at such a fragile time, with workforce, financial and image issues rampant. It’s massively important that Hft and providers like ours can continue to be a leading voice in calling for long-term change, while also demonstrating that change can happen.”

Hft chair Amanda Bunce added: “Steve brings with him a commitment to collaborative approaches across local communities, not-for-profit providers and statutory organisations to help people live their best lives, something he will support Hft to continue doing well.”

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