We don't take walking for granted!

STEPS provides a voice for babies and children with congenital hip dysplasia, clubfoot and other disorders who cannot take walking for granted.

Every year over 2,000 South African babies are born with the common birth defect of clubfoot.  Incorrect or incomplete treatment has long-term effects on a child’s quality of life. Many still have unnecessary surgery, and grow up with badly-formed or painful feet, limps. They face the increased risk of further complications like arthritis as they get older, not to mention the psychological and socio-economic effects of their condition, particularly in rural areas.

FACT: Over 80% of children born with clubfoot in South Africa don't have private medical aid cover

FACT: The South African black population has 2.5 to 3 times the average world rate of congenital clubfoot

FACT: Many babies treated at in the state health system still face serial plaster casting for months – followed by unnecessary surgery

STEPS Mission Statement and Vision

STEPS assists babies and children with clubfoot and other lower limb disorders. Incorrect or incomplete treatment affects a child's quality of life - for life.

STEPS works to build the capacity for early detection and treatment of clubfoot, collection of data on the frequency and public health implications of clubfoot and other relevant disorders, and assessment of the impact of interventions and formulation of effective public policy.

To achieve this we are committed to supporting further research, innovation, services and best practice through a partnership approach with doctors, government, parents and patients.

STEPS Declaration:

In view of the frequency, severity, clinical implications, treatment options, and public health significance, every child born with clubfoot and other lower limb disorders has the right to:

1. Early and effective treatment by the best current practice
2. Access to care, including services by a health care provider trained in the method.

Operational details:

Steps Charity has offices in Parkwood, Johannesburg (South Africa) and we are in worldwide contact with other clubfoot organisations and support groups. Steps Charity is a registered Section 21 company and NPO. Our registered auditors are KH Financial Services, based in Durban, South Africa.