“I began to understand myself a lot better. I’ve forgiven myself and am beginning to forgive other people. I’ve let go of a lot of things. It’s allowed me to move forward. I’m 37 years old and I’m just learning who I am!” Aaron
Read our report: First Step – Annual Impact Report 2022-2023 Version 1.3
The year was significant for First Step as we marked our 25th anniversary. We held a series of events throughout the year to celebrate all we have achieved, proudly showcasing our successes and recognising our reputation for providing a safe space where men, and their supporters, are listened to and supported on their healing journeys.
Whilst there is a lot to be grateful for, the year was not without its challenges in the post pandemic world.
The complex landscape of social and eco-nomic pressures has seen an increase in the demand for support services across all areas. This has stretched organisations in the not for profit sector that are fighting hard to deliver meaningful benefit to the community in their specific area of specialism.
First Step was not spared from these difficulties. But, thanks to the commitment, compassion and resilience of our team of dedicated staff and volunteers we have continued to respond to all that has been asked of us, successfully securing the resources we needed from our funding partners to continue delivering and developing our services and to help more people.
The number of referrals we received, individuals we supported and different ways in which we provided therapeutic services and other means of assistance all increased against a backdrop of reduced funding opportunities and tightening budgets.
Unphased, we simply got on with helping those who needed our support.
This was a tremendous achievement for everyone, and testament to the spirit of First Step that has grown over the last 25 years.
Towards the end of our anniversary year we held a team strategy day which involved staff, volunteers, survivors, trustees and other key stakeholders. The day galvanised the passion we all feel for the organisation, harnessed some innovative thinking and generated exciting ideas on how we can further develop and extend our services.
This kickstarted activity focusing on our strategic plan for the next five years, iden-tifying the building blocks needed for development and growth.
This momentum will continue as we work towards achieving new goals and meeting future aspirations, ultimately helping more people retake control and move forward.
As we reflect back on the year 2022-2023, all involved in First Step should take pride in their contribution to help create the welcoming, nurturing and supportive envi-ronment we have in place.
Underpinned by a 25 year legacy we should also be excited and confident of what comes next.
We have many more steps to take, let’s all keep walking.
Mark Evans
Chair First Step Leicester Leicestershire & Rutland
Read our full 2022-23 Annual Impact Report
PDF copy: First Step – Annual Impact Report 2022-2023 Version 1.3
Flipbook: Issuu Flipbook