I reached out to Steve last year for coaching support, having caught my eye with his always-honest, often-brutal observations of leadership in the charity sector.  I’d recently finished my PG Cert and as part of the reflective practice element, had graduated with a ‘to do’ list for self-improvement, including the recognition that I had early signs of professional burn-out and felt a bit stuck in a rut, wondering ‘what’s next?’.  I was getting itchy feet to do more, not less. 

As it turned out, over the weeks that followed, we ended up ignoring this ’to do’ list.  Instead, we worked together to find the areas of work and home that gave me energy and help me to thrive, alongside having to do ‘business as usual’. 

Steve helped me to see (literally in my diary) there are only so many hours in the day, and that it is my right and within my gift to put some boundaries back in for things I enjoy.  Together, we uncovered the importance of creativity, being an advocate for causes I love, high levels of trust, responsibility and freedom, and time spent outdoors. 

I’m still learning, adjusting and certainly have blips and bumps in terms of priorities, but I very much value having this new list to return to, focused on my strengths and preferences, and not my weaknesses.

Kirsty Telford, Deputy Director, Ministry of Stories & Hoxton Street Monster Supplies

Steve Allman lives charity, breathes charity, and eats... well, biscuits. He's a brilliant consultant, wildly passionate about social good and brings a depth of hands-on experience to the conversation.

We held a Nonprofit Power Hour session with Steve to reflect on our charity's journey through survival, stability, and explore our approach on what comes next which will be pivotal to furthering our reach and impact of our work.

Steve instantly developed trust and understanding, his calm and comforting approach effortlessly put us at ease. Steve's thought-provoking questions and well positioned pauses challenged and validated in equal measure.

Closing off with a collection of insights, Steve tied off the hour leaving a positive impact and contributions that will shape our work for years to come.

Zoheb Shariff, Chief Executive Officer, Mosaic 1898

Steve’s coaching has definitely helped me regain my confidence. Not only that, the sessions managed to help me to understand why I had lost my confidence in the first place.

Steve’s coaching has enabled me to understand more about myself as a leader and helped me to develop my skills, encouraging me to have faith in myself and my abilities.

He has the ability to carefully steer each session with the perfect balance of reflection and compassion, ensuring you feel comfortable and listened to.

He is a really genuine guy and I am grateful he has been part of this journey with me, providing me with the tools to become the leader I want to be.

I would most certainly recommend Steve as a coach and look forward to catching up with him for a final reflection in due course.

Alison Watson, Fundraising & Marketing Manager, Home-Start in Suffolk