Step out in Essex CIC

11/04/2026

Big news, everyone! 💙
We are so excited to announce that the brand-new Step Out Essex website is officially LIVE! 🚀
Our goal has always been to provide a safe, supportive space for our community, and our new online home makes it easier than ever to find support, check out our latest meet-ups, and get in touch.
Take a look around and let us know what you think:
👉 www.stepoutessex.com
Remember, you don’t have to walk the path alone. Step out and join us today. 🤝

A safe, inclusive community for neurodivergent young people and adults (11–30) in Southend-on-Sea and across Essex. Join Step Out Essex for teen youth groups, social catch-ups, and anxiety support in a welcoming environment.

05/04/2026

This Easter, as we celebrate new beginnings and renewal, the team at Step Out Essex wishes our community a joyful and peaceful holiday. For many, this is a time for family, friends, and reflection. However, it can also be a challenging time for some. We want to remind everyone to prioritize their mental well-being and find strength in community. Connect with loved ones, take time for yourself, and if you need support, remember that you are not alone. Local mental health resources are available, and we are here for you. We encourage you to visit www.StepOutEssex.com to learn more about how to access help and support in your area. Happy Easter!

27/03/2026

🍨 18–30 Social Outing Today! 🍨

Today some of our 18–30 members headed out for a sweet treat at Creams Café Southend!

It was a lovely chance for everyone to get out, socialise, and enjoy some delicious desserts together. From waffles and crepes to milkshakes and sundaes, there were plenty of smiles all round! 😋

Days like this are all about building friendships, trying new things, and having fun as a group.

If you’re aged 18–30 and would like to join future outings and activities, keep an eye on our page for upcoming events! 💬

27/03/2026

We had another fantastic week at Youth Group! 🎉

Our second session went really well, and it’s great to see everyone starting to build confidence and get involved. This week we played a fun icebreaker game which helped everyone get to know each other better, followed by some creative Easter-themed arts and crafts. 🐣🎨

Please note that we will be closed over the Easter holiday. We look forward to welcoming all our members back on Thursday 16 April 2026.

Thank you to everyone who came along – we can’t wait to see you again soon!

20/03/2026

Feeling Anxious About Socialising? You’re Not Alone. 🤝
For many neurodivergent and socially anxious teens (aged 11-18) in Essex, traditional youth groups can feel overwhelming. That's why we’ve created Step Out in Essex Youth Group at The Fitzwimarc School.
Think of it as a place where the "rules" of socialising are relaxed.
• No Pressure: We focus on comfortable connections. You won't be put on the spot.
• Safe Space: A community built on understanding and mutual respect.
• Fun & Games: Low-key activities to help break the ice and build confidence.
We meet every Thursday from 6pm to 8pm. The best part? Your first 3 sessions are completely FREE! It’s the perfect way to see if it’s the right fit for you, with no obligation.
We need new members to help shape our group—come be a founding part of something special!
Supported by Essex Youth.
Have questions or worries about joining? DM us! We’re here to help make the first step as easy as possible. 😊
🔗 More details: www.stepoutessex.com

20/03/2026

Sometimes the biggest step is just admitting we need a breather. Our latest guide at Step Out Essex highlights three ways to find your balance: Self-Care, Connection, and Mindfulness.We want to hear from you:Which one of these are you focusing on this week?1️⃣ Self-Care (Reading, walking, or just resting)2️⃣ Connection (Checking in with a friend)3️⃣ Mindfulness (Taking a few minutes to just be)Drop a 1, 2, or 3 in the comments, or tell us your favorite way to recharge! 👇🔗 Find your local support: www.stepoutessex.com

19/03/2026

👋 Calling all neurodivergent and socially anxious young adults in Essex (ages 18-30)! 🌟
Looking to make new friends and connect with people who get you? Step Out in Essex CIC is here for you!
We're a new social group designed to provide a safe, supportive, and relaxed space for you to meet like-minded individuals and have some fun.
Join us for a variety of activities, including:
* 🍻 Pub night outs
* 🍽️ Dinner dates
* 🎨 Arts and Crafts
* 🎳 Bowling, walks, and more!
Our goal is to help you build confidence, expand your social circle, and enjoy new experiences in a judgment-free environment.
Ready to step out and make some new connections?
💻 Visit our website to learn more and sign up: www.stepoutessex.com
We can't wait to meet you!

19/03/2026

Tomorrow is World Happiness Day, and at Step Out Essex, we're celebrating by sharing what makes us smile! 😁
We want to hear from YOU! Drop an emoji in the comments that represents your answer to these fun questions:
* 🌲 NATURE HEALS: Do you feel better after a local walk? 🚶‍♂️
* 🌅 LOCAL IS LOVELY: Is the Essex coastline the best place for sunsets? 🌇 Or do you have another favorite spot? 🏙️
* 🤝 COMMUNITY BOOSTS MOOD: Have you made a new friend through our group? 🗣️
* 🏃‍♀️ ACTIVE IS HAPPY: We believe a walk is all it takes to find joy. What's your opinion? 👍
Let's spread some happiness and connection! Remember to visit our website stepoutessex.com to learn more about our group. Day

18/03/2026

We are excited to be reopening our youth group tomorrow!!
At the new venue Fitzwimarc school youth centre

6-8pm x

Reminder. Step Out Essex Teens starts tomorrow 💚

Step Out Essex Teens launches tomorrow in Rayleigh for neurodivergent or socially anxious young people aged 11 to 18.

Rayleigh Youth Centre, FitzWimarc Sixth Form 📍
6pm to 8pm 🕕

First sessions are free, then £3 per week.

For more information, email
[email protected] 📧

14/03/2026

Thankyou all who came today!!! Lovely time with great people Good weather too 😀 see you all again soon at next walk ###

04/03/2026

🌟 Youth Group ReOpening This March! 🌟
Step out in Essex CIC
We’re so excited to be launching a Neurodivergent & Socially Anxious Youth Group for young people aged 11–18 💛

📍 Held at The FitzWimarc School (Rayleigh Youth Centre)
🗓 Thursdays
⏰ 6pm – 8pm

This group is a safe, understanding space for teens who may struggle with social anxiety, feel overwhelmed in larger settings, or identify as neurodivergent.

✨ A place to:
• Make friends at your own pace
• Build confidence
• Take part in relaxed, supportive activities
• Feel accepted and understood

Supported by Essex Youth

💚 First 3 sessions FREE
After that, just £3 per week

If you’re interested or would like more information, please message us — we’d love to hear from you!

Please share to help us reach families who may benefit 🙏💛

28/02/2026

🌈 Step Out in Essex CIC – Monthly Social Groups (Ages 18–30) 🌈
Looking to meet new people in a relaxed, welcoming space? 💬
Our Step Out in Essex monthly social group is designed for neurodivergent and socially anxious young adults aged 18–30 — a safe place to socialise, build confidence, and just be yourself.
📍 The Hang Out Venue Ltd – Southend
🕡 6:30pm – 8:30pm
📅 Upcoming dates:
• 28th March
• 25th April
✨ Friendly atmosphere
✨ No pressure to talk — go at your own pace
✨ Make connections & have fun together
Everyone is welcome — come along, bring a friend, or come solo and meet new people 💛
📩 Message us for more information or to book your space!