Beyond Words appoints its first Chief Executive

We are very excited to announce the appointment of our first Chief Executive, Stephen Hall.

Stephen has over 20 years of senior leadership experience in the education and wider not-for-profit sectors. He joins us from a national dyslexia charity, where he was the Operations Director, before taking on an interim Chief Executive role. 

Stephen says, "I am delighted to join such an innovative and inspiring team that is at the centre of the social and wellbeing agenda. I aim to continue the great work of expanding the scope and reach of this charitable company, enabling even more young people and adults with learning disabilities to access the life changing Books Beyond Words provision."

Stephen’s appointment also marks the departure of Danny Curtin, who has helped to lead Beyond Words for the last five years. 

Beyond Words Founder Baroness Hollins says, “We would like to thank Danny for his leadership, drive and commitment to Beyond Words, and look forward to our continued connection with him through our shared interests. Beyond Words' work supports anyone who finds pictures easier to understand than words in all aspects of everyday life, including their physical and mental health and any contact they might have with the criminal justice system.”

Danny adds, “Whilst I move on to continue work with many other charities, I feel quietly proud to leave Beyond Words in such a strong position, undertaking life changing work for people with learning disabilities, their family, friends and supporters. I know it will continue to go from strength to strength – and I look forward to staying in touch, seeing many more new books, and hearing of the growing network of book clubs across the country.”