The leader of a specialist drug and alcohol service for children, young people, and their families will be stepping down as its chief executive. 

Andy Sexton will leave The Matthew Project, based in Norwich, at the end of February after nearly five years at the helm. 

He said: “The Matthew Project is an outstanding organisation and it’s been a great pleasure and honour to lead it for the past four years.  

“We have a wonderfully committed and professional staff team whose work is more important than ever.” 

READ MORE: Tributes paid to founder of The Matthew Project charity

Mr Sexton first joined the charity in 2018 and was instrumental in overseeing the design and construction of the award-winning Next Steps recovery centre in Oak Street in the city centre. 

At the time, its service users said they did not want a building that felt clinical and Mr Sexton was able to translate those wishes into a place that is both welcoming and vibrant.

During his tenure, the organisation has expanded services including its support for young people with mental wellbeing issues to reduce the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services waiting list. It has also extended its veterans support into Cambridgeshire and forged links in Norfolk and Suffolk with a partnership with the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust and Walking with the Wounded.   

Liz Wiggins, chair of charity, said: “Andy’s passion to champion the needs of those who have found themselves on the margins of society because of addiction or other mental health issues has enabled The Matthew Project to develop a team of staff who see the person, not the problem, and who are dedicated to bringing hope to over 1,500 people and their families annually.  

“He has our deepest thanks for all he has done, and we wish him well as he plans for the future.”  

The charity provides support to young people and adults with substance misuse and mental health issues. Rachel Chapman, currently its deputy chief executive, will succeed Mr Sexton as the interim chief executive.