Eight Bells for Mental Health thanks former chairman Steve Masters for outstanding contribution
A mental health charity in Newbury has said a heartfelt farewell to one of its longest-serving trustees.
Newbury town councillor and RAF veteran Steve Masters stepped down from Eight Bells for Mental Health at the end of March after joining the charity in 2017 and becoming its chairman one year later.
Tributes of thanks have poured in following Mr Masters’ departure. He joined the charity while experiencing his own mental health issues.
Reflecting on his experience, Mr Masters, who now works as a community organiser for Citizens UK, said: “Like a lot of small charities, [Eight Bells] was struggling for funding and lacking a bit of direction, if I'm honest.
“So, when I became chair, I put in a three-year plan to get it financially sustainable.
“We brought in some new trustees and people who we felt could help deliver that, and we did in two years.”
He continued: “If I hadn't been a trustee, I would have been a member with my history of mental illness.
“I was working as a mental health rehab care assistant at the time, and they asked me if I'd come on board.
“I just felt if [this charity] had been around when I was going through my issues, my road to recovery might have been a little bit quicker.
“It provides a real sanctuary for people who just don't have anywhere else to go.”
Charity administrator Yvette Eltringham added: “Steve brought a deep empathy and understanding to the role, quickly becoming not just a leader but a part of the Eight Bells family.
“He was a regular at our support sessions, joining in with activities and spending time with our members, always with warmth, humour and humility.
“Steve reminded us that Eight Bells is not just a service, but a community, a lifeline and an extended family for many.”
Eight Bells staff and volunteers currently support around 100 members living across West Berkshire affected by mental health issues and loneliness through drop-in centres and a range of advocacy support.
The charity won Team of the Year at the Newbury Weekly News Best in Business Awards 2024.
