It was with great sadness and a deep sense of loss we announced the sudden death on 16th March 2004 of Kevin Hyett, Chair of Breakthrough UK Ltd since it was first set up in 1997.
Kevin had a long history of involvement within the disabled people's movement, spanning over 20 years. His involvement with Breakthrough has been significant; even prior to incorporating the company he was involved for some 2 years on the "shadow Board" which guided and directed our development, and he has been an active and committed chair ever since the incorporation. His refusal to compromise on the basic principles of Breakthrough, coupled with an astute understanding of organisational and commercial matters brought a unique contribution to the company and support to all those who worked with him.
Breakthrough steers through some stormy waters at times, running a successful day-to-day business, whilst challenging the establishment - and the disabled people's movement - to do things differently. This is in no small part due to Kevin's vision, that not only can disabled people run services but we can do it at least as well as, and probably better than, the established providers - and that those services can be based on a "social model approach".
The support that Kevin gave to us all, especially those of us he sent out "onto the golf course" to promote our approach, cannot be overstated. We have been shocked and devastated by our sudden loss, and send our thoughts and best wishes to Angela his partner, his family, friends and colleagues.
Lorraine Gradwell,
Chief Executive
