In 1994 we became the FIRST company to offer an alternative to residential accommodation by giving young people a real opportunity to experience independent living in stand-alone supported accommodation.

Twenty One years later, we are now a NATIONWIDE organisation which has offered support and accommodation to over 2,000 young people, mothers and babies, young offenders, vulnerable adults and asylum seekers.

To provide the means for a person in care to move forward through adolescence into adulthood in a safe supportive way.

Next Step provide support, accommodation and independence training for young care leavers of 16+, young offenders, unaccompanied minors, young parents and adults with mental health, drugs and alcohol issues.

Next Step is committed to work towards these objectives in a manner which promotes good safeguarding practice.

Next Step works in line with Every Child Matters, the policy agenda of the Children Act 2004, in promoting its five key outcomes as part of a multi-agency support network. 

Aims

Our aims in working with young people are to help them to manage their:

• relationships with Outreach Workers and other professionals

• relationship with peers, neighbours, etc.

• accommodation

• personal and hygiene skills 

• health

• budgeting

• training/education/recreation

• emotional well-being

• future plans.

• We contract with social services with the following explicit aims:

• to provide real life experience and high quality independence training and support

Next Step's philosophy	Outcomes
To provide the means for a young person in care to move forward through adolescence into adulthood in a safe and supportive way. Next Step provides support, accommodation and independence training for young care leavers of 15+, young offenders, unaccompanied minors, young parents and young adults with mental health, drugs and alcohol issues.   Next Step work in line with every child matters, Children act 2004 the policy agenda of the children act 2004 in promoting its five key outcomes as part of a multi-agency support network.	A Young Person, on completion of any of the listed programmes will: • have had regular contact with an Outreach worker • have been shown how to access GP and Dental services • have been given the opportunity to improve numeracy and literacy skills • have been accompanied to seek work, education or training • have produced a CV • have been shown how to complete a job application form • have been given various interview techniques and tips • have been helped to obtain NI number and birth certificate • have been shown how to apply for Welfare Benefits • have been shown how to carry out basic household duties ( cleaning, ironing, etc.)