Established in 2024, Solent Next Steps provides therapeutic, nurturing, and supported accommodation for young people transitioning into adulthood. Founded by Charlotte Tanner and Kirsty Sheppard, experienced directors of Solent Child Care, the organisation brings together over 25 years of expertise in Residential Child Care. They partnered with accomplished, experienced Operations Director Mandy Clarke-Smith to shape this new journey and ensure a true home-from-home ethos.
At Solent Next Steps, we recognise that young people leaving care need more than just a place to stay; they need tailored support, life skills, and real opportunities to thrive. We provide secure, comfortable shared homes (up to four young people) with 24/7 personalised support, based on individual needs. We can also offer AQA’s evidence learning for each young person's independence journey.
Who We Support
- We work with young people aged 16 to 21, including:
- Care-experienced young people leaving residential or foster care
- Those facing mental health challenges
- Young people at risk of, or experiencing homelessness
- High-risk taking young people who are at risk of CSE, CCE.
Our Vision
To empower every young person that we support to build a confident, capable, and independent future.