STEPS Rehabilitation is delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted for the 2024 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards in the brand-new Randal Foundation Entrepreneur of the Year category, sponsored by The Randal Foundation. This new category celebrates entrepreneurs whose ventures embody the core mission of The Randal Foundation: to save lives, improve life chances, and make a positive contribution to communities.
The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, often referred to as the “Grammys of Entrepreneurship,” celebrates the achievements of the UK’s most dynamic and innovative businesses. Each year, the awards receive thousands of applications, underscoring the competitive nature and high standard of the competition. This year’s shortlist represents a combined turnover of nearly £2.9 billion and employs approximately 20,000 people, highlighting the crucial role these businesses play in driving economic growth and innovation.
In addition to this shortlisting, Founder and Chairman of STEPS Rehabilitation, Ray Boulger has also been shortlisted for the Unretirement Entrepreneur Award at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2024. This award celebrates seasoned professionals who refuse to let age define their ambition, recognising exceptional individuals who have defied traditional expectations by pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams later in life. These inspiring entrepreneurs leverage their lifetime of experience and expertise during what would typically be their retirement years.
Founded in May 2017 by Ray Boulger and his daughters, Toria Chan and Jules Shiel-Boulger, STEPS Rehabilitation in Sheffield has become a leader in neurological rehabilitation. The centre specialises in intensive residential rehabilitation for individuals recovering from brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, traumatic amputations, and complex trauma. The inspiration behind STEPS Rehabilitation came from Ray and his daughters, who identified a significant gap in the provision of rehabilitation for life-changing injuries. Toria and Jules heavily relied on Ray’s wisdom, expertise, and financial acumen throughout their journey. Despite being of retirement age, Ray assumed the critical role of Finance and Business Director from the outset. His guidance, expertise, and unwavering determination have been pivotal to the success of STEPS Rehabilitation, and his continued involvement ensures its financial stability and ongoing growth.
Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, Founder of The Randal Foundation and a previous winner of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, encapsulates the spirit of these honours. Dr Kotecha arrived in the UK as a refugee, and his journey to becoming a globally recognised entrepreneur and philanthropist is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship.
“This award recognises entrepreneurs who not only achieve commercial success but also make a meaningful impact on society,” says Dr Kotecha. “I am honoured to sponsor this category, which highlights the pivotal role of business in driving positive change.”
The awards ceremony will take place on Monday, 18th November, at London’s prestigious Grosvenor House, where the winners of each category, across the regions, will be announced. This event is the largest celebration of entrepreneurship in the UK, providing a platform for businesses to connect, celebrate, and champion the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Francesca James, Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, stated, “The calibre of entries this year is truly outstanding. These entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy, and their stories are a testament to the incredible resilience and creativity of the UK's business community. We are thrilled to recognise their achievements and support their continued growth.”
Allica Bank, the headline sponsor for this year’s awards, shares this commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success. “It has been a real honour to sponsor this year’s Great British Entrepreneur Awards. Hearing the inspiring stories from the incredible businesses that these awards champion really brings to life the important contribution that British entrepreneurs make to our economy,” says Conrad Ford, Chief Product & Strategy Officer at Allica Bank.