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Steve Lloyd, the founder of the Hesley Group, is widely regarded as a pioneer in the field of specialist care and education for individuals with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs. His vision, dedication and relentless focus on improving lives laid the foundation for an organisation that has supported countless people and their families for over 50 years.
Early Beginnings and Vision
Steve Lloyd’s journey began with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with complex needs and their families. Both Steve and his co-founder, Sam Wrigley, were special needs teachers, which gave them a unique insight into the needs of the people they aimed to support. In the 1970s, access to tailored support and specialised services was limited. Recognising this gap, Steve embarked on a mission to create environments where individuals could thrive, grow and achieve their full potential. His vision was to deliver care and education that placed people at the centre of every decision, ensuring dignity, respect and meaningful outcomes.
A pivotal moment in the Group’s creation came in 1974 when Steve and his partner, Sam, worked tirelessly to secure a bank loan from Barclays, with support from key advocates like Sir James Whittaker, the previous owner of Hesley Hall. Steve recalled the intense preparation for the loan pitch: “We were working in Bristol at a large complex for delinquency and behavioural problems, but, additionally, working most evenings, tapping away on a typewriter at midnight. When we were told ‘You’ve got your loan’, it was a pivotal moment. It couldn’t have happened without that.” This determination helped pay off the loan in just seven years, solidifying the financial foundation of the Hesley Group.
Founding the Hesley Group
In 1975, Steve Lloyd and Sam Wrigley established the Hesley Group, driven by the belief that everyone deserves opportunities to lead fulfilling and enriched lives. Initially, Hesley Hall was dedicated to supporting children with emotional and behavioural difficulties. The Group soon expanded its reach, opening Wilsic Hall School in 1977, Axholme House in 1979, Broughton House School (Lincolnshire) in 1981, plus acquiring 2 existing schools, Southlands School and Hill House School in Hampshire in 1982, and further expanding the southern Group by opening Grateley House School, also in Hampshire, in 1985.
In November 1988, Sam Wrigley very sadly died of a heart attack aged 46 years, an incredible sorrow to all who knew him, causing Steve to review the Group’s structure whilst increasing his determination to continue the good work.
Over time and with changes in the requirements of the national special needs sector, the focus shifted to supporting people with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs, reflecting Steve’s evolving vision for inclusive and person-centred care. This saw the change of designation of many of the existing schools plus the opening of Fullerton House School in 1991 followed in short order by Purbeck View School and The Forum School both in Dorset.
A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
Under Steve Lloyd’s leadership, the Hesley Group became renowned for its innovative practices and unwavering commitment to quality. He introduced Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) as a cornerstone of the organisation, promoting a compassionate, evidence-based approach to understanding and meeting individual needs. By prioritising capable environments and therapeutic input, Steve ensured that people not only received care but were empowered to make progress and achieve personal goals.
Building Relationships and Partnerships
Steve believed that effective leadership was rooted in understanding and empathy. “Leadership, I always say, if you don’t know the name of your part-time cleaner’s dog, you’re not managing,” he explained. “You need to know that because when that dog dies, you need to be the first one with an arm around the person. That’s what it’s about. That’s what real leadership is.”
He also emphasised the importance of communication in leadership: “I used to say to all the senior staff, anybody can give bad news and have a bad reaction. Anybody can give them good news and have a good reaction. I pay you to give them bad news and have a good reaction. And that’s a proper leader. You need to be able to impart bad news at times and have a good reaction.”
Steve understood that creating lasting impact required strong partnerships and collaboration. Early decisions to integrate with local communities and create unique opportunities for the people supported by the Group were transformative. For example, in the early days, a brass band was established, led by Jack Argyle, which brought together children to perform at local events. Steve fondly recounted how one boy, who had struggled significantly, returned years later to express gratitude: “He said, ‘I just wanted to say thank you. I’ve now got two shops in Sheffield and I’m going straight.’ Moments like that make it all worthwhile.”
Expanding Horizons: The Village Concept
One of Steve’s most ambitious projects was the development of the “village” concept. In 2000, Hesley Village, now known as Meadow View, was established to provide a community where individuals with learning disabilities and autism could live semi-independently while accessing robust support systems. “Why should someone live with a stranger if they don’t want to? Everyone deserves their own address,” Steve argued. Despite resistance from local authorities, his persistence led to the creation of the Hesley Village, a landmark achievement that exemplified his commitment to dignity and progress.
This marked a significant milestone in the Hesley Group’s journey, alongside further developments in the early 2000s. King Street opened in 2003, broadening the Group’s service offerings. The sale of Hesley South to the Cambian Group in 2005 enabled a sharper focus on Hesley North, leading to the opening of Low Laithes in 2007. These advancements solidified the Group’s reputation as a leader in specialist care, demonstrating Steve’s enduring commitment to dignity and progress.
Navigating Challenges and Triumphs
Steve’s journey was not without challenges. From navigating shifts in legislation, such as the Warnock Report and the 1981 Education Act, to expanding services amidst financial pressures, his ability to adapt was key. Reflecting on the legacy of the Hesley Group, Steve once remarked: “Development, to me, is simple: doing something today you didn’t do yesterday. That’s progress, whether it’s a small achievement or a significant milestone.”
The Hesley Group Today: A Continuing Legacy
Though Steve Lloyd has since passed on the mantle, his values and vision remain at the heart of the Hesley Group. Today, the organisation continues to uphold his legacy, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. The Group remains focused on putting people first, being passionate about quality, and driving progress — values that reflect Steve’s original mission.
From Mercury College to specialist residential services, the Hesley Group’s success is a testament to Steve Lloyd’s foresight and commitment. His life’s work has created opportunities for generations of individuals and their families to experience growth, support, and achievement.
Honouring Steve’s Vision
Steve Lloyd’s pioneering contributions to social care and education continue to inspire. As the Hesley Group celebrates its 50th year, it stands as a reminder of what can be achieved through vision, passion and an unwavering dedication to people. Steve’s legacy lives on in every success story, every achievement, and every life improved through the work of the Hesley Group.
“Steve Lloyd believed in possibilities, saw potential where others saw challenges, and created a legacy of hope and opportunity. His vision lives on in everything the Hesley Group does today.”
