Who we are

Steps Towards Empowerment and Positive Survival (STEPS) was formed in 2006 by a group of victims, survivors and veterans affected by the Northern Ireland �Troubles', who had been involved with the Foundation for Peace's Legacy Project. Click here to see who we are.

We have come together as a result of our shared experiences of being caught up in many different, but tragic results of violent political conflicts. These include bombings, deaths of family members, the trauma for soldiers and emergency services personnel, and the sufferings of physical injuries and psychological traumas etc., as a result of the Northern Ireland �Troubles'.

We believe there is life after trauma and to that end we are learning to be survivors, coming through this learning journey. Personal empowerment is something that can only come with patience, understanding and appropriate support.

What we do

Our vision is: �Taking STEPS to raise awareness and empower people affected by trauma to live positive lives.

We aim to:

• Use our experience to inform and help others
• Link up with other survivors and victims
• Network with other relevant groups, organisations and government departments
• Produce, contribute to and signpost to resources for people to help themselves
• Be role models for positive change

We have created our STEPS leaflet to help you to develop the strength needed to tackle the issues you are dealing with, to attempt to signpost you to where support should be available and to reinforce the message that statutory bodies do have a duty of care to help you. This leaflet is also to help professionals to understand trauma from our perspective.

Voluntary organisations and groups can and do also help. We have put together a list of links to support organisations which can be accessed here.

STEPS members are available to speak at conferences and events about their experiences and the work of the group. We will also take part in consultations aimed at improving the lives of victims/survivors.

Survival is all about taking small steps� If only someone had told us.

How to get involved

STEPS membership is open to all victims and survivors of conflicts and terrorist attacks living in the UK . If you want more information and/or want to get involved with STEPS, please contact the Foundation offices on 01925 581231 or Email steps@foundation4peace.org

�Life is not the way it's supposed to be, it's the way it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference� Virginia Satir