100 jobs to be created with launch of trauma centre

A healthcare company will create 100 jobs when it opens a 26,000 sq ft neurological and complex trauma rehabilitation centre in Sheffield next month.

STEPS Rehabilitation has built a state-of-the art facility, based on part of the site of the former Jacobs Manufacturing Company premises on Troutbeck Road, 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 around 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) through 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.   

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.

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.”