Starbucks Hornchurch High Street

First Step is a family support charity working with families of babies and young children with special needs and/or disabilities. First Step was established in October 1988 in response to a plea from some parents of young children with special needs and/or disabilities. They felt along with others in a similar situation, would benefit from a group where they would be able to talk, share experiences, and provide support for each other in a non­-judgmental environment. ​ Since then the Charity has evolved to provide a wide range of sessions and services. These have been designed to strengthen the wellbeing of the family and improve outcomes for children. First Step works with around 100 families each year offering tailored support, information and encouragement. The first contact often occurs at a time of uncertainty, feeling all is not well with their child.

We presently have over 5000 members and a number of regional groups around the UK who arrange medical talks, publish local newsletters, set up local occasions and organise fundraising events. LUPUS UK also produces an informative national magazine with lupus articles, letters, reports, and photographs, and operates a strong Grant Programme for research purposes and welfare. We strive to: - support the sufferer who may be alone and isolated, - provide advice and welfare support for people with lupus, - publish information on the disease and make literature available on lupus from other sources, - publish posters and publicity material, and to produce the national magazine News & Views, - arrange educational meetings and generally inform the medical and nursing professions on lupus, - publicise lupus through the Press, Radio and TV, magazine articles and all other possible outlets, - promote the annual October Lupus Awareness Month and awareness the year round, - increase the charity's member base and income, - raise money for research and welfare support through national, regional and local fund-raising events, - affiliate with other organisations whereby the voice of LUPUS UK can reach a wider audience.