20 Years of MS Associates (Safety) Ltd

A reflection from founder Matthew Stevens

Twenty years ago, I started MS Associates (Safety) Ltd with more hope than certainty and a firm belief that I could provide a trusted and loyal service.

Like many small businesses, it didn’t begin with grand plans or big offices. It began with an unplanned split (due to illness) from a respected mentor, Geoff Wilding (AEGIS Associates) followed by long days, honest conversations, and a determination to work hard and do the right thing, even when it wasn’t the easiest option. From the very start, my focus was simple, prioritise clients, protect people and become a trusted source of advice and support.

Over the past two decades, the construction and safety industries have changed beyond recognition. Regulations have multiplied and evolved, expectations have risen, and projects have become more complex than ever. Through all of that change, one thing has remained constant, the belief that safety isn’t about paperwork alone, it’s about people, trust, and responsibility.

This anniversary has encouraged me to reflect and acknowledge one of the major reasons for our relatively humble success, a simple truth, it wasn’t achieved alone.

I want to sincerely thank our clients, many of whom have supported MS Associates for years, even decades. Your trust has meant everything. Allowing us into your workplaces and projects is not something we ever take lightly, and your loyalty has shaped who we are as a business.  Particular mention to those who have placed their trust in us over many years including some businesses that no longer exist, Everest Construction, John Hobden, MST Solutions and Alex W Brade where our earliest supporters.  It is a source of great pride that many others are still with us to this day.

To our trusted employees and associates, past and present, this company exists because of you. Your professionalism, integrity, and commitment to high standards of practical and client focused support have built our reputation day by day, site by site. You’ve represented MS Associates with pride, often in challenging environments, and I am incredibly grateful for everything you’ve contributed. Notable supporters of the business in the early years where Kevin Redding, Douglas Ormandy and recently Andy (“Struggers”) Strugnell.  In more recent years we are lucky to have the “dream team” (as they like to be known) of Alison Clover Kinna and Rebecca Churchill who have helped grow the business and develop the training provision, extending our offer and quality of approach. There have been so many training and consultancy associates that have also supported the business.

To our partners and collaborators, thank you for sharing knowledge, challenging thinking, and working alongside us to support the industry. Particular thanks to Lee Shirley, Leon Maidment and Andy Bishop for your loyal support. Special thanks to Martin Mitty of MST Solutions, Kay Mills and other safety partners. I’m grateful for the relationships we’ve built along the way and genuine collaboration and commitment that we created.

When I look back over the last 20 years, I’m proud not just of the projects delivered or the milestones reached, but of the culture we’ve built, one based on trust, loyalty, and doing what’s right, even when no one is watching.

As we celebrate this milestone, I do so with gratitude, humility, and optimism. The hope MS Associates will continue to focus on what has always mattered most: people first, practical safety, and helping everyone get home safe at the end of the day.

A massive Thank You to everyone who has played a part in our business and for your ongoing support.  As part of our celebrations, we are announcing a number of events throughout the year so please watch this space.

Matthew Stevens
Founder, MS Associates (Safety) Ltd