Self Management in the Community 2025 finalist – Next Steps: A Pathway to Purpose

“Ultimately, our aim is to empower every young person we work with to achieve their goals and play an active role in their communities."

The Next Steps project works with young people across Edinburgh and the Lothians who have additional support needs, helping them to build the skills, confidence, and experience they need to take their next steps in life. They are supported to explore career options, gain practical skills, and discover opportunities that match their interests and abilities. Through tailored guidance, hands-on training, and one-to-one mentoring, they help each young person navigate the complex path from education into further training or employment, making sure they feel supported.

The project works closely with schools, local businesses, social services, and families to provide collaborative support that meets each young person’s unique needs. By connecting these different sectors, they help to create a more inclusive community where everyone’s strengths are recognised and valued.

Next Steps help young people with additional support needs become more independent and employable, which not only improves their own lives but also strengthens the local community. Currently they have thirty young people volunteering in various roles – they have set up community sport groups and have contributed to the set-up of a social enterprise. They also organise social events, giving the young people the chance to enjoy a night out in a safe and welcoming space. By supporting their development in all these ways, they aim to create a more diverse, inclusive, and connected community where everyone has the chance to take part and make a difference.

They regularly collaborate with local councils, education departments, and health and social care partnerships to ensure that the support they offer aligns with wider services. They really value community partnerships outside of statutory services and have strong relationships with local employers and voluntary organisations who have been vital in providing real opportunities and resources.

The challenges they have faced along the way include navigating complex referral systems and ensuring consistent communication between multiple agencies. They have also faced reluctance from some organisations to offer volunteer placements, as well as a lack of ongoing support in some cases once placements are in place. Other barriers include long waiting lists for specialist services, and differences in how agencies work or prioritise cases. Despite these challenges, they have found that open dialogue, flexibility, and building strong, trusting relationships with partners can go a long way in finding solutions and keeping opportunities open for the young people they support. Building strong relationships and maintaining regular, honest communication is key. It’s important to be person-centred, flexible, and to involve young people and their families in decision-making.

Looking ahead, they aim to grow the Next Steps project to reach even more young people with additional support needs and offer support that is truly tailored to them. They want to strengthen partnerships and create more opportunities that lead to long-term, sustainable career pathways. A big part of their plans is opening new community hubs, which will provide safe, welcoming spaces for skills development, social activities, and support. “Ultimately, our aim is to empower every young person we work with to achieve their goals, build confidence, and play an active role in their communities.”