Fifteen years ago, Becky Tucker walked into Step One as a newly graduated support worker. Today, she leads its Community Services as Manager, a journey marked by growth, resilience and an unwavering belief in the people the charity supports across Devon.
As Becky celebrates 15 years with the organisation, we spoke to her about how far she, and the charity, have come.
“When I first started, I was fresh from university,” Becky recalls. “I had no idea I’d still be here 15 years later.”
Over the years, Becky steadily progressed through the organisation, from support worker to senior, then deputy, and now Community Services Manager. With each step came new challenges and new opportunities to shape services.
“My role has evolved massively,” she explains. “We’ve seen so much growth. We’ve expanded our supported living services, strengthened our community and support teams, and ultimately been able to help more people with their wellbeing across Devon.”
While she didn’t originally imagine building such a long career at Step One, she credits one key factor for staying: the people.
“It’s absolutely the team. I’m lucky to work with such fantastic colleagues, they’re what make it special.”
Over the past 15 years, Becky has seen significant changes in the mental health and social care landscape.
“Social care funding has dramatically reduced,” she says. “Advocating for the people we support has become an even more important part of our role, making sure they have what they need to work towards their goals.”
Despite external pressures, Becky believes one lesson has remained constant throughout her career:
“No person is the same. We’re trained to support people with mental health concerns and neurodiversity, but there is always more to learn. Every individual teaches you something new.”
When reflecting on her proudest moments, Becky’s focus is firmly on growth and opportunity.
“Building community services into what they are today is a huge achievement,” she says. “Opening two new supported living properties was also incredibly special.”
She’s also taken her commitment beyond day-to-day management, quite literally stepping off the edge to raise funds for the charity.
“I completed a wing walk and a skydive to fundraise,” she laughs. “Those were unforgettable experiences!”
But it’s the quieter moments that stay with her most.
“One person we supported moved from hospital into our 24/7 service. Over time, they stepped down through support levels and eventually moved into their own home. Seeing that journey, that progress, is exactly why this work matters.”
Becky is quick to acknowledge those who have shaped her own journey, particularly her previous manager, Sarah Ellis.
“She was inspirational and helped shape the manager I am today,” Becky says. “Good leadership makes such a difference.”
She describes the culture at Step One as supportive, values-driven and team-focused, a place where resilience and courage are essential, but where looking after your own wellbeing is equally important.
So what keeps her motivated?
“My team,” she says without hesitation. “Seeing their dedication, and seeing the difference we make together, keeps me inspired.”
For anyone considering a career in the charity or mental health sector, Becky’s advice is grounded in experience:
“Be adaptable. Resilience and courage are essential if you want to make a difference in people’s lives. But you must also look after yourself and your own mental health, you can’t pour from an empty cup.”
After 15 years, Becky remains as passionate as ever about the future of Step One and the communities it serves. She hopes to see continued growth, greater access to support, and a sector that is properly resourced to meet the increasing need for mental health services.
From support worker to senior leader, Becky’s story is one of dedication, not just to a career, but to people. And in a sector where change is constant and challenges are real, her 15-year commitment is a powerful reminder of the impact that compassionate, consistent support can have on individuals and communities alike.
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