Who We Are

Steps is the UK’s only charity focused on helping people of all ages—and the families who support them—living with both common and rare lower limb conditions. With more than 45 years of experience, we’re here to offer clear, trustworthy information, a listening ear, and practical support to help make what can feel like a confusing or overwhelming time a little easier.

Our Vision

All those with a childhood lower limb conditions will have the very best chance to achieve their maximum potential.

Our Mission

Steps Charity will provide all those affected by lower limb conditions in the UK with the best information and support they need, when they need it, supporting them on their journey and ensuring they get the best possible outcomes and mobility.

We do this by

  • Ensuring that families are as fully informed as possible about the realities, challenges and options that lie ahead. We have a range of award-winning booklets, films and online resources;
  • Providing practical and emotional support through our Staff and Volunteer teams;
  • Offering a safe place to share concerns and to benefit from the experience of others, through our Family Contact Service and online community;
  • Facilitating family events where those affected by lower limb conditions can meet with others who are going through similar journeys;
  • Increasing public awareness of childhood lower limb conditions, through our communication activities;
  • Working with clinicians, to encourage best practice and raise awareness of the issues concerning patients and their families;
  • Striving for a better future, through our work with research projects. This is to increase understanding of, and improve treatment for, all aspects of childhood lower limb conditions.

Our Values

  • Collaborative
  • Community
  • Making a Difference
  • Trust
  • Positive

How we make it happen

Everything we do is through the hard work and skill of our staff, volunteers and trustees. But none of it would be possible without the commitment and generosity of our supporters and donors. We’re proud of what we achieve on a modest budget of less than £200,000 per year But with more funding, there is so much more we can do! Please consider what steps you can take to help us.

As we like to say at Steps, “We don’t take walking for granted!”

Our History

After her son Daniel was born with clubfoot, Sue Banton discovered limited help, support or guidance available to her and so, in 1980, she founded this charity. Over the last 46 years, the charity has adapted to meet the needs of its beneficiaries and today, as Steps Charity, we continue Sue Banton’s legacy of transforming lives.