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Our Journey: A Director’s Perspective on Stepping Stones Care

18 September 2026
A director's perspective of Stepping Stones Care

Hello, readers! Today, we have the privilege of gaining insights from Steve Travis, the Director of Operations at Stepping Stones Care. With over 21 years of experience in the sector, Steve shares his journey and sheds light on what makes Stepping Stones Care a unique and nurturing home for children.

A Vision That Captivated:

“I’m Steve Travis, and I’m the Director of Operations for Stepping Stones Care. I’ve been in the sector for 21 years. I was a senior manager for ten years, and then I met the owners about 18 months ago. Absolutely fell in love with their vision, and here I am.”

Putting Children First:

“Stepping Stones Care is like a breath of fresh air, I have to say. The owners are really passionate about childcare. We focus on the primary task, which is children. And the support that I’ve had and hopefully the support that I give to people, I think sets us apart.”

The core philosophy at Stepping Stones Care revolves around prioritising the primary task – the well-being of children. The genuine passion for childcare, coupled with unwavering support, creates an environment that sets us apart in the sector.

Growing Together, Caring Forever:

“It’s my job to help grow the organization and also offer the best possible care to children. The qualities that somebody needs to look after our children is somebody who really cares and will go the extra mile.”

Resilience and Passion in Childcare:

“So a resilient person, a person who’s not easily offended, but a person that really is there for the children, who understands themselves, understands their own history and is passionate about childcare.”

Owners with a Difference:

“In my opinion, the owners set Stepping Stones Care apart from other organizations. I’ve worked for organizations that have private owners and have then been acquired by private equity firms. And I have to say that the owners here concentrate on the primary task, which is childcare, they want to do things the right way and have a real passion and desire to make a difference.”

A Therapeutic Approach to Transformation:

“There’s been a number of children since I’ve joined who have gone back to parents or have moved to foster care, and with our new Model of Care as well, it’s been noted by the regulators that we are a therapeutic provision, and that therapeutic practice that has been afforded to the children has made a real difference to them. And that’s why they’ve been able to transition back to family or back into a foster family.”

The impact of our therapeutic approach is evident in the positive transformations of children under in our care. The recognition by regulators underscores the effectiveness of the organisation’s commitment to providing a therapeutic environment that fosters healing and growth.

Steve Travis’s journey and insights into Stepping Stones Care offer a glimpse into our organisation that goes beyond standard childcare. It’s a place where passion, resilience, and genuine care converge to create a nurturing environment, setting the stage for brighter futures for the children in our care.

If you’re interested in joining the team here at Stepping Stones Care, you can view our vacancies right here.

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