We built Little Steps because we watched too many parents being left behind.
Little Steps began inside a nursery in London. Working closely with families every day, it became clear how many parents struggled to understand and access the support their children were entitled to, especially when it came to the EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) process.
The information and the forms were there, on official channels. But the language was complex, technical and hard to interpret for anyone without a legal or administrative background. For many immigrant families the barrier was even higher, because English added another layer of difficulty to a moment already filled with worry and uncertainty.
Watching the frustration, the insecurity and the sense of helplessness of so many parents who simply wanted the best for their children, Leine knew something more human, accessible and welcoming was needed. She brought the idea to her daughter, Katherine, and together they built Little Steps, so this support could reach every parent in that situation, not only the ones lucky enough to know Leine personally.
Little Steps turns complex information into clear, understandable guidance. We believe no parent should feel lost when seeking help for their child's development and wellbeing. Every small step taken with support and knowledge can make a big difference in a child's future.
To make sure no parent in England misses out on the support their child is entitled to, simply because no one explained the right words, the right forms, or the right steps to take.
Clarity above all
We turn official, bureaucratic language into plain English, every time. If a parent can't understand it, we rewrite it until they can.
Access for every family
Getting the right SEND support shouldn't depend on your income, your background, or how confident you are in English. We build for every family, including those for whom English is a second language.
Accuracy you can trust
Every template is reviewed against current SEND law and the SEND Code of Practice for England, and updated when guidance changes. We'd rather check than guess.
Community over isolation
No parent should have to work this out alone. The question one parent asks today is the question another parent will be asking tomorrow.
Leine
Co-founder
Works with children at a nursery in London. Her daily contact with parents struggling to navigate the SEND system was the origin of Little Steps.
Katherine
Co-founder
Daughter of Leine, and the partner who helped turn an everyday need into a platform that can reach families across England.