Welcome to
Step Ahead

Step Ahead is a place of acceptance and
well-being for those with mental health issues in Canterbury.

Te Ara ki Mua, hē wāhi whakaae, whakamana,
whakaora ōu whānau e mauiui hinengaro ai

A community-based not-for-profit providing a relaxing space where you can make friends, learn new skills, try new things, have fun, and learn how to better manage life’s everyday challenges.

The pathway forward

Te Ara ki Mua

Activities are at the heart of everything we do at Step Ahead. We don’t just offer one activity per day, but multiple, allowing members to have choice in the activities and gatherings that promote mental and physical well-being.

Members can pick and choose which activities to attend, and there are no limits on how many you can sign up for. Activity costs are often subsidised, meaning that many activities are free to join, and the rest are a minimal cost.

The purpose of these regular and thoroughly enjoyable activities is to help those with mental illness take part into community life and wellness. We are a welcoming, understanding, and non-judgemental place that helps people ‘step ahead’ in their recoveries by organising all sorts of activities and get togethers, and anyone stepping in from the street might think we are a well organised group of friends rather than a not-for-profit organisation.

Members are at the heart of what we do and are involved at every level of the organisation, from suggesting activities, to sometimes being employed by Step Ahead, and joining the Board of Trustees. Members support and assist each other every day, and often form long-lasting friendships.

Guiding principles and beliefs

Our Core Values

Hope

A belief that being involved with Step Ahead will make a positive difference to members’ lives.

Choice

Attendance at any activity is voluntary and members choose their own level of participation.

Respect

Consideration and empathy for others.

Responsibility

Members make their own decisions and accept responsibility for the outcome.

Openness

Decision-making processes will be fair and transparent.

Join us

Become part of our community

Step Ahead is a friendly and welcoming community for adults of all ages. It’s easy to join and even easier to enjoy. Get in touch to try an activity, see how everything works, and join Step Ahead for support and friendship in your journey to wellness.

Learn More About how to join