Paralympic Gold medallist Gregg Stevenson, a former Royal Engineer Commando who lost both legs in Afghanistan, has been appointed as Lancashire County Council's Armed Forces Covenant project manager. The 38-year-old father of two from Foulridge, East Lancashire, will lead a county-wide strategy to improve services for veterans and their families.
From Paralympic Glory to Veteran Advocacy
Stevenson, who won Gold in mixed double sculls at the 2024 Paris Paralympics with partner Lauran Rowles, was later named World Rowing Para Crew of the Year. Now he steps away from competitive rowing to spearhead support for the Armed Forces community.
Working alongside the council's Armed Forces and Veterans Champion Gary Kniveton, local charities and emergency agencies, Stevenson aims to bridge gaps in support and amplify the voices of often-overlooked service families.
A Personal Mission Rooted in Experience
After losing both legs below the knee in a 2009 Afghanistan injury, Stevenson underwent gruelling rehabilitation before discovering rowing during 2018 Invictus Games trials. He previously worked with NHS veterans' mental health service Op Courage, developing coping strategies and increasing patient engagement.
Stevenson said: "I see my role as the eyes and ears of the Armed Forces community, and I am very keen to ensure their voices are heard across the county." He emphasised that while most veterans thrive, some face challenges requiring swift support to prevent crisis.
Key Priorities: Ageing Veterans and Overlooked Groups
"A key ambition of mine is to ensure that we continue to shine a light on and continue to do good work with our ageing veteran community - but we mustn't forget other areas of the veteran community that are often overlooked," Stevenson said. The role includes addressing housing, employment, health, well-being and innovation.
After medical discharge in 2012, Stevenson worked at the Specialist Mobility Rehabilitation Centre in Fulwood, catering to amputees and those with mobility challenges. He later joined Op Courage, gaining insight into combat roles' impact.
Building Partnerships and Networks
Stevenson's first priorities include re-establishing the Armed Forces Covenant Network and improving partnership working across the county. "I'm really excited to get going in this new role," he said. "I'm sure this new role will make a real difference to the Armed Forces community in Lancashire."
The appointment underscores Lancashire's commitment to supporting its Armed Forces community, with Stevenson's unique perspective as a decorated veteran driving meaningful change.
