BIG Stepping Stones

Big Stepping Stones

We know parenting a young person with complex needs is exhausting. That’s why our support comes from people who have been there. 

We understand that the journey after a brain injury can feel overwhelming, unpredictable, and isolating. That’s why we take a holistic approach—looking not only at the medical or practical challenges, but also the emotional, social, and everyday realities that families face. 

Contact an advisor today, we’re here to help.

Get in touch

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By completing this form, you are agreeing be contacted by BIG Stepping Stones to discuss your enquiry and you agree to our privacy policy.

Our Services & Support

Our team of in-house advisors and trusted professionals bring together expert knowledge and lived experienceWhether navigating care systems, finding practical solutions for daily life or simply having someone for emotional support, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way. 

Kate and Leo's Story

Kate Dixon, Children and Young Person Specialist at Big Stepping Stones, is mum to her 15-year-old son, Leo, who has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and complex needs. Her day-to-day experience securing equipment, wheelchairs and home adaptations so Leo can move safely and confidently gives her a real understanding of what families face- and how to push for practical solutions that truly help.
 
Kate has challenged CHC decisions, found the right respite care, and learned how to explain Leo’s real-life needs in ways professionals understand. She sees how behaviour links to pain, posture and sensory needs, and focuses on simple, personalised strategies that support comfort and wellbeing.
 
Through her and Leo’s journey, Kate has become a strong advocate for parents’ and siblings’ quality of life — determined to help families thrive, not just survive.

Funding Pathways

Explore funding options, understand available support, and begin planning for the future with greater clarity.

Podcast – Growing Minds

In collaboration with the Brain Injury Group, Growing Minds explores the many sides of childhood brain conditions through real stories, expert interviews and honest conversations. Each episode offers practical insights to help families, professionals and young people feel more understood. Bringing together specialists and those with lived experience, Growing Minds creates a space for learning, reflection and connection. 

About Big Stepping Stones

BIG Stepping Stones is here with one aim- to help children with complex neurological needs live the best life they canWhether you are a family member or carer, our team of advisors share lived experience and professional knowledge with practical guidance and emotional understanding. Together, we’ll navigate the journey ahead. 

We’re Here to Support Your
Schools/Centres

If you’re Special Needs School or a Children’s Centre, we’d love to hear from you. We can deliver welcoming information days to give families direct access to resources and specialist advice within their familiar environment. Find more about our Information Days today and get in touch

Latest Podcast Episodes

Growing Minds> 44 min > EPISODE # 9

Transition from Child to Adult

Our COO, Clare Harrison, is joined by Heledd Wyn, Solicitor and Partner at Rothley Law, to discuss care, mental capacity, and planning for the future.They explore key considerations for families, including long-term care planning, EHCPs, and the transition from childhood to legal adulthood, highlighting the protections and support that can help ensure young people continue to receive the right care as they grow older.

Growing Minds> 32 min > EPISODE # 8

An Introduction to Gympanzees

In this episode, Kate Dixon Children and Young Person Specialist at the Brain Injury Group and Big Stepping Stones is joined by the CEO and Founder of Gympanzees, Stephanie Wheen. Learn more about the UK’s first fully inclusive exercise, therapy, play and leisure centre, the fundraising efforts and challenges that with the opening of the UK’s first full inclusive exercise., play and leisure centre – opening later this year.

Growing Minds> 27 min > EPISODE # 7

Against the Odds: My Game

In this episode, Georgina Davies, Rehabilitation and Partnerships Lead at Brain Injury Group, is joined by Chloe Hughes, a National Cerebral Palsy footballer for Bristol City CP. Chloe shares her experience of playing football while living with cerebral palsy, discussing the challenges and misconceptions she has faced, the importance of accessibility and inclusion in sport, and her ambitions for the future.

Growing Minds Episode 6

Growing Minds> 49 min > EPISODE # 6

Growing up with Cerebral Palsy: Then, Now, and what comes next

In this episode, Kate Dixon, Welfare Benefits Advisor and Young Person Specialist at the Brain Injury Group, is joined by Sarah Edwards, a Cerebral Palsy Specialist at Scope. Sarah shares both her lived and professional experience of living with cerebral palsy and supporting individuals with the condition, as well as how Scope advocates and supports young families.

Growing Minds> 55 min > EPISODE # 5

EHCP or Transition to Adulthood/SEND Provision

Featuring Clare Harrison, COO at Brain Injury Group, and Laxmi Patel, Partner and Head of Education at Boyes Turner, this episode explores how support for young people with SEND evolves as they transition into adulthood. Through expert insight, they unpack EHCPs, transition planning, and navigating education, health, and care at this pivotal stage.

Growing Minds> 20 min > EPISODE # 4

Charity Partner Spotlight - The Eden Dora Trust

In this episode, we’re joined by the founder and CEO of The Eden Dora Trust to discuss how the charity began and its mission to support children with encephalitis and acquired brain injury (ABI). We explore the condition, the challenges families face after diagnosis, and how the Trust offers practical and emotional support through its SPEAK mission.

Growing Minds > 42 min > EPISODE # 3

The Litigation Journey from a Family Perspective

Featuring Clare, our COO, alongside Helen O’Neill – Nash, Director at Billy’s Charity, this episode offers a powerful family perspective on the litigation journey. Through real experiences and compassionate discussion, it sheds light on the emotional, practical, and long-term impacts of navigating the legal process following a birth injury.

Growing Minds > 30 min > EPISODE # 2

Birth and Beyond – Spotting the Early Signs

Featuring Jacob, Clinical Advisor, and Emma Trudgill, Clinical Advisor for Children, this episode explores the early signs to notice in both parents and infants during the perinatal period. Together, they share clinical expertise, lived experience, and compassionate advice designed to help families recognise needs early and access the right support.

Growing Minds > 52 min > EPISODE # 1

The Day My Life Changed Forever – Parenting a Child with a Brain Injury

Featuring Clare Harrison, our COO, and Kate Dixon, Children and Young Person Specialist, this episode shares both personal and professional reflections on the challenges, rewards, and meaningful moments of parenting a child with a brain injury. Through open discussion, they highlight resilience, growth, and the importance of tailored support for families.

Meet Our Team

Big Stepping Stones advisors are here to assist you with your enquiry

Our team of in-house advisors and trusted professionals bring together expert knowledge and lived experience, so you can feel understood as well as supported. 

Kate Dixon

Children and Young People Specialist

Emma Trudgill

Clinical Advisor & Midwife

Client Feedback

Start the Conversation

Our team is here to help you explore the support available. Many parents carry these worries in silence. Starting the conversation can be the first step towards finding a way forward. You can contact us to:

Our support team are ready to assist you with your enquiry

Contact Form - New

By completing this form, you are agreeing be contacted by BIG Stepping Stones to discuss your enquiry and you agree to our privacy policy.