StepsForward – Support that wraps around your whānau when life gets tough
Sometimes life feels hard, and getting through the day takes everything you’ve got. That’s where StepsForward comes in, a warm, local team who truly understands the ups and downs that families face.
Serving the Hibiscus Coast community since 1996, StepsForward is a for-purpose organisation that provides free support to families, grounded in compassion, flexibility and understanding. Whether you need help navigating parenting, healing from trauma, or just some extra support at home, they’ll work alongside you to make things better.
Everything they do is trauma-informed and guided by tikanga, which means you’ll always be treated with dignity, respect and care.
They offer flexible sessions where you feel most comfortable, at home, at their offices, or anywhere in your community where you feel safe and supported.
Who they are
StepsForward is here for families across the Hibiscus Coast from Whangaparāoa and Silverdale to Pūhoi and Waiwera. Their team includes a qualified social worker, a trained parent coach, and a kind, reliable home support crew.
This is a team that listens, works alongside you, and believes in your whānau’s ability to grow and thrive.
What they do
StepsForward offers a range of wrap-around supports tailored to meet families where they are:
- Family Navigator – A qualified social worker can support you with parenting, trauma, life goals or referrals to other services. Together, you’ll make a plan that feels right and achievable, no judgement, just support. (In-home or in-office, whatever works for you.)
- Parent Coaching – One-on-one parenting help, grounded in positive and trauma-informed strategies like Triple P and TBRI®. These sessions are customised to your whānau, helping you build stronger relationships and more confidence as a parent. (For families with preschoolers or children of any age.)
- Home Support – Short-term, practical help in your home when things feel overwhelming. A trusted support worker will come for 2 hours a week over 4 weeks to help with childcare, light household tasks, or even just making it to that appointment you’ve been putting off. (Note: This is support, not cleaning – but they’ll happily lend a hand with washing, dishes, vacuuming, or keeping things ticking over.)
How they help
StepsForward works with you, not at you. They take time to understand what’s happening in your world and offer practical help, not just words. Families often say they finally feel seen, understood and supported, and that makes all the difference.
No two families are the same, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach here. The StepsForward team takes your lead and offers help that fits your life, culture, and goals.
When to reach out
If life is feeling a bit too much – or you’re doing your best but still feeling stuck, StepsForward is here to walk beside you. Whether it’s parenting stress, family change, or just needing a bit of breathing room, they’re here with open arms and practical support.
You don’t have to do this alone – let StepsForward walk alongside your whānau.
