About Positive Steps

Helping you build a brighter future, one positive step at a time!

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About Me & Why I do, what I do

From my early teens I have experienced mental ill health within my family. As a young adolescent my close support system was challenged, and my eyes were opened to the impact of mental ill health and how this can affect anyone at any time. I rapidly went from being cared for and nurtured to being the caregiver and nurturer to supporting my family members to get the help and support that they deserved. This sparked a passion that I did not know I had.

When I reached my early twenties, I suffered firsthand from the effects of mental ill health when my physical health deteriorated to where I was bed bound due to physical pain. I lost motivation, confidence and I was extremely low in mood and angry with the world. This is when I decided that I needed a change and began studying (from my bed) for a degree in psychology and pushing for answers about my physical health condition. Things slowly improved with time and determination.

In my thirties I was knocked again when I again suffered with my mental health and due to experiencing a traumatic event, I was diagnosed with Post-traumatic stress disorder and Generalised anxiety disorder. I recognised (after suffering silently for 11 years) that I needed to get specialist support and underwent trauma therapy.

I grew stronger with the support, and this then further fuelled my passion to help so I started to volunteer with a crisis text service whilst still pushing to work on my own self confidence and anxiety when out of my home as well as continuing with my degree.

I eventually felt ready to go further and applied for a support worker role and worked up the ranks. This is where I found myself as I absolutely loved the role and appreciated the difference that such support can make to people's lives, I finally felt like I was on the path that I was meant to be on. I passed my degree (with honors) and still am passionate in continuing to increase my knowledge and understanding of mental ill health and the effects it can have.

Helping others find some relief, hope and passion for themselves as well as acceptance is my main drive in life, and I will be forever grateful to the lady who helped me find mine.

Gemma's Story

When I reflect on my journey, it feels like an intricate web of pain, strength, healing, and hope. For ten years I experienced my own person journey of mental ill health, and I know firsthand how isolating, terrifying, and emotionally draining it can be. But I also know how powerful it is to take back control of your life, to seek help, and to heal. My passion for helping others comes from the fact that I've been through some dark experiences and been in some very dark places in my life, and those moments shaped me in ways I never expected. Going through difficult times taught me the value of empathy, understanding, patience, and the importance of not feeling alone and feeling valued. I understand how it feels to be in a place where you think no one gets it, and that’s why I want to be there for others. I want to show people that they’re not alone, that healing is possible, and that even from the darkest of experiences, there’s a way to find light. For a long time, I struggled to find the right words to describe my journey. It felt like a weight I carried silently, a part of me I hid for fear of being misunderstood or judged. But the truth is, mental health is just as important as physical health — and sometimes, it’s the invisible wounds that are the hardest to heal.

My battles have given me the strength to be a source of support for those who might feel lost, and it’s because of this personal experience that I am so passionate about the work I do and can offer hope to others who are facing their own battles. I want to help people see that no matter how dark the days may seem, that there is strength within to get through. Every storm eventually passes, and with each challenge, you become stronger. Stay resilient, keep believing in yourself, and know that brighter days are ahead.

Take your first steps towards a more positive future.

If you or a loved one needs support, we’re here to help people living in Doncaster, Rotherham, Sheffield, Barnsley and the surrounding areas

Don't Trip On What Is Behind You

Who is Positive Steps Rotherham

Positive Steps is a dedicated and devoted service for the support agency/homecare and social support service for adults 18 and over. We have had much experience with clients who are complicated and who need different types of support, and with people who have mild learning challenges. Positive Steps offers person-centred support that is holistic in approach for people who have mental Ill Health or have mild learning difficulties.

At Positive Steps, we pride ourselves on being sensitive and having a non-discriminatory and understanding attitude. We have a wealth of experience in supporting people with a variety of difficulties, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Hyperactivity Disorder, Attention-Deficit and mild learning difficulties.

The support will be offered in the client’s home or in the community, and some of the services that the client may require assistance with include shopping, daily living, cleaning and maintaining the home, doctor’s appointments, staying active and taking part in enjoyable or productive activities, whether in a group or on a one-to-one basis. Suppose the client wants to be more independent or integrate with others. In that case, Positive Steps can help ease or promote the process of making friends or mixing in a group.

We can also support by prompting personal care, medication, budgeting, and managing bills and finances. At all times whilst supporting to do the things that you wish to do we will always put you first and are dedicated to empowering you to promote independence and encourage you (where possible) to take the lead, with guidance, to build healthy routines and increase personal confidence and promote decision making to help to promote your independence building on your strengths.

You will play the main part in your own support plan and will be involved throughout in developing your own support to fully ensure that it is your needs and goals that are being met. We strongly promote and recognise your independence so that you know and more importantly can feel that you have control of your lives and futures whilst under social care support all whilst gently guiding using our expertise and initiative.

Do you or someone that you know need a little extra support?

We assist individuals who are 18+ with a range of mental health challenges, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, autism, ADHD, and mild learning difficulties.

We take the time to truly know each individual, offering positive steps — big or small — at their own pace.

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Don't Just Take Our Word For It...

Compassionate, kind, and genuinely caring. I’ve never felt judged, only encouraged to be the best version of myself.

Client Review

19/02/2025

Positive Steps have helped me come a long way. They plan activities that are inclusive and help me to understand other people’s needs and communication needs. The support has allowed me to make friends, and reassurance is always given when I need it. Staff help me understand that it is okay when people are busy and that it does not mean they are ignoring me. Positive Steps support me to have positive relationships with everyone, especially my daughter. All staff are brilliant and understanding in their own ways, but they all still meet my needs, which is important to me. Positive Steps has given me and opened me up to new opportunities.

03/06/2026

When I was first introduced to Positive Steps, I felt fearful, anxious and withdrawn. I did not mix with lots of people, but now I have become more comfortable being around such lovely friends. The staff are all very welcoming, friendly, understanding and fun to be around. They all understand the challenges of living with mental health. The support workers help immensely with confidence building and giving us the chance to live life to the full and experience new things and go to places such as bowling, bingo and competitions. There is not one person, either staff or service user, that is horrible. I love them all.

Diane

03/06/2026

Positive Steps gets me out and about. The staff are outgoing, very helpful, flexible and meet my needs. I enjoy the group activities because they help me make new friends and socialise.

Debbie Hostler

03/06/2026

Working with staff and service users has been very challenging and rewarding. I really enjoyed going out on the tram with staff and other people to do some Christmas shopping. I found it very hard to get on the tram because I suffer from dizziness and anxiety, but I felt more at ease being with staff and clients. Positive Steps staff have been amazing because they are very helpful with support. I would recommend their service to anyone with mental health problems or any disability.

M.G.

03/06/2026

Before I began support, I only had my boyfriend. Now I have the entire team. I have had a good time with lots of understanding. I used to think people pushed me, but now I realise they were trying to help me see my potential. I still have a long way to go, but I have been proud of my progress. I look forward to going out and having fun instead of being stuck at home and feeling disabled and depressed. I have been improving with my confidence and feel comfortable with the staff. It is good to have a little bit more variety with who supports me. I am building relationships with other clients and, although I still get nervous at times, I do feel more confident than I used to. It is hard for me to trust people and have confidence, but the team at Positive Steps have really helped with that. Without the group and team, I would still be stuck at home and my boyfriend would be overloaded and overworked. Good on everyone for putting up with me and enjoying my quizzes!

Jaden

03/06/2026

Positive Steps has been the best support I have received in all the years I have struggled with my mental health. Even when mental health services became involved, I did not feel supported in the same way that Positive Steps has supported me. I am so glad I was given this service. I cannot thank the team enough for everything they have done for me. List of training provided

L.H. - Client Review

03/06/2026

One thing I like about Positive Steps is that all the staff are very kind, friendly, and supportive. They all attend and are happy to help with anything you need. For example, if you are struggling with anything, they are very helpful. They listen to me, and one of my favourite staff members has to be Zaa. She is very funny and makes me laugh a lot. They are all very patient and understanding. They encourage me when I face any sort of challenge. I appreciate their positive attitude and the effort they put into making sure I feel supported. Overall, I am very grateful for their help and would highly recommend them.

04/07/2026

Since working with Positive Steps, I have started to feel more confident leaving the house and trying new things. The support workers help me with daily tasks, appointments and social activities, but they also take the time to listen when I am feeling anxious or overwhelmed. They understand my needs and help me take things one step at a time. I feel safer knowing I have support from people who genuinely care.

Anonymous

29/06/2026

The support from Positive Steps has helped me build a better routine and become more independent. Staff have supported me with shopping, household tasks, attending appointments and getting out into the community. They encourage me without putting pressure on me, and this has helped me feel more confident in myself. I feel listened to, respected and supported.

client

16/06/2026

As a family member, I have seen such a positive difference since Positive Steps became involved. The support has helped my loved one build confidence, get into a better routine and feel more comfortable accessing the community. The staff are kind, patient and understanding, and they take the time to work at a pace that feels right for the individual. It is reassuring to know they are being supported by people who genuinely care and want to help them become more independent. Positive Steps has not only supported my loved one, but has also given our family peace of mind knowing they have consistent, reliable support in place.

Family member

04/07/2026

Positive Steps has helped me feel included and part of something, even though I have mobility restrictions. I sometimes worry that I will not be able to join in with activities or that I may hold others back, but the staff always make sure I feel comfortable, supported and involved. The group activities have given me something to look forward to and have helped me feel less isolated. They have also supported me to meet new people, build friendships and feel more confident around others. Staff take the time to understand what I can manage and make sure activities are accessible for me, so I never feel left out or judged. Being included in trips, groups and social activities has made a real difference to my confidence and wellbeing. Positive Steps has helped me feel valued, supported and able to enjoy new experiences at my own pace.

Anonymous

12/03/2026

Positive Steps has really helped me in my day-to-day life. The staff support me with things like going out, shopping, appointments and getting into a better routine. I don’t feel rushed when I’m with them, and they understand that some days are harder than others. They encourage me to try things for myself, but they are still there when I need support. Since having Positive Steps, I feel more confident going out and doing more things. I have been able to meet new people, join in with activities and feel less on my own. It has made a big difference having support from people who listen and understand me.k

client

07/04/2026

From the very first meeting, I felt at ease. The team is professional yet warm, making a real difference in my confidence and daily life

Client Review

19/02/2025

The support I have received has been truly life-changing. They listen, they care, and they genuinely want to help

Client Review

19/02/2025

Positive Steps has changed my life. The team is incredibly supportive and understanding. I finally feel like I have control over my future. Positive Steps has changed my life. The team is incredibly supportive and understanding. I finally feel like I have control over my future.

Client Review

19/02/2025