About Us

Steps History

When Sue Banton’s son, Daniel, was born with Clubfoot, she soon discovered that families like hers had nowhere to turn for advice and support. The frustration and isolation she faced motivated her to write to Mother & Baby and Parenting magazines.

The feedback was overwhelming and Sue received over 60 letters from anxious parents in the same situation as herself. Determined to respond positively, she set up a self-help group in 1980 – and Steps was formed! Eight years later, Steps became a registered charity. In recognition of her personal contribution to the vital services provided by Steps, Sue was awarded an MBE in 2010. In the years since Sue’s retirement, Steps has continued to go from strength-to strength and we’re widely recognised as the leading organisation in the field.

Following numerous requests, we extended our support to families and individuals affected by congenital or developmental conditions such as hip dysplasia, fibular hemimelia, PFFD, tibial hemimelia, SUFE, Perthes Disease and acquired leg difference.

Steps has always been at the forefront of improving treatment and support for the families and individuals for whom we work. We were a driving force in the Ponseti method being adopted as the default treatment for clubfoot in the UK. Steps is often asked to represent patients in research projects looking at the diagnosis and treatment of childhood lower limb conditions. Health professionals now recommend Steps to families when their baby is diagnosed with a serious leg condition.

But the list of things that we still want to do is a long one! Please think about how you might help us to ensure that everyone with a serious childhood leg condition has the very best chance to achieve their maximum potential.