Good News from Lhanbryde: Families Flourish with Step by Step Support
Step by Step in Moray was founded in 2008 by an auxiliary minister in the Church of Scotland who deeply believed that Christian calling meant showing God’s love in action – journeying with people through life’s hardest seasons. As a retired Consultant Paediatrician, her vision was to support struggling parents in giving their children the best possible start.
She recognised that traditional parent and toddler groups often felt daunting for families facing isolation or vulnerability. The answer? Smaller, relationship-focused groups where trust could grow. Supported by a planning team representing Health, Community Education, Social Services, Third Sector organisations, and the Church, the pilot project thrived. Three years of match funding from the Church of Scotland’s Parish Development Fund laid the foundation for what has become a movement of compassion and transformation.
👶From Isolation to Inclusion
In 2022, SALU Parish Church partnered with Step by Step to bring this vision to Lhanbryde. With support from the William Grant Foundation and SALU volunteers, group sessions launched at the Community Centre. The results have been remarkable. Over 92 sessions were delivered in 2024, filled with stories, crafts, snacks and song. More than a playgroup, this is a community where confidence grows, social barriers fall, and hope is restored.
💬One grandparent shared:
‘ Step by Step has been brilliant for my daughter and grandson. She was really struggling
with her mental health and would be in Ward 4 now if it wasn’t for you.’
🌈Real Stories. Real Impact.
With 36 families engaged, the ripple effect is real. Parents report enhanced self-esteem, greater control over their lives and a strong sense of community. When one mother faced legal, emotional and logistical upheaval, Step by Step stepped in, offering support
and dignity in the form of Christmas gifts and companionship.
👥Volunteers at the Heart
The project is powered by six regular volunteers, all connected to SALU, whose backgrounds in teaching, foster care and parenting bring both warmth and wisdom. Two SALU trustees are deeply involved, with one now serving as Chair of the Board. Their presence ensures that the ethos of faith, welcome and practical care remains woven into every part of the programme.
🤝Local & National Connection
The project is well integrated with Moray’s wider children’s services and collaborates with partners across health, wellbeing and early years education. Visitors from ChildSmile, Moray Libraries, Mini Melodies and others enrich sessions, while donations from groups like MFR Cash for Kids and local churches make sure no family goes without.
In February 2025, Step by Step showcased its model at the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) at The Gathering in Edinburgh and was well received. With evaluation research underway by Professors Karen McArdle and Sue Briggs MBE, the project is laying strong foundations for the future. A previous report by these authors highlighted the benefit and value for money Step by Step provides.
🚸Challenges & Commitment
Travel barriers still exist for some families, but Step by Step is committed to meeting those challenges with practical support and partnership. The warm welcome at Lhanbryde Community Centre, and the generosity of its volunteers and café staZ, continue to make every session a safe and joyful space.
🎉A Model Worth Supporting
As numbers grow and stories of transformation multiply, the message is clear: Step by Step in Lhanbryde is not only building connections – it’s building futures. Continued funding will ensure these eZorts can grow, deepen and inspire others to walk alongside their communities, step by step.
