First Step works with pre-school children with special needs and communication difficulties and those diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Cramped conditions at their previous premises meant that new accommodation was required and they found that the R.J.Mitchell School was ideal - except that it required £1.1 million to be spent on refurbishment.

Spoon donated £44,000 for the refurbishment of one of their specialised rooms and the small highly dedicated team at First Step raised the balance in 2 ½ years - a remarkable achievement. This, however, was not surprising given the quality of the team dedicated to the project, both in its ongoing daily routines and the capital project itself. Undoubtedly many people were involved but particular mention must me made of Gill Hair MBE, the Service Manager and Founder of First Step; Gill Webb, the Co-ordinator and Colin Coe, a Trustee and chief fundraiser. First Step has 20 dedicated staff caring for up to 75 children. Their new premises will significantly help them to improve the quality of care they are able to give to the children and the Green Room will be a great asset to the children

First Step was delighted that Saracens rugby player, Kris Chesney was able to give up his time to officially open the new room.and Spoon was represented by Philip Blunden, Trustee and Project Co-ordinator and virtually the full Essex Committee. This was the last official function of John Dilley, the retiring chairman, after three years of sterling work. The Committee are pleased that he will continue as a Committee member and run the golf days and any other functions that he can be talked into. Spoon would like to convey their appreciation of his achievements during his time in office.