Next Step is the leaving care service for Salford.
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We provide support to:
- young people in care from the age of 16
- young people leaving care, usually until their 21st birthday
- depending on your circumstances and your own wishes, the service may be extended for a limited period of time or potentially up to your 25th birthday
You can also return to Next Step for advice and signposting anytime in the future, whatever your age.
All young people under the Next Step service have a pathway advisor (at the age of 16). When you leave care you may be allocated an aftercare worker (but only once you reach 18).
Next Step also offers a duty service between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday to deal with emergencies if your pathway advisor / aftercare worker is unavailable.
The number to call is 0161 607 1888.
Next Step can help you with:
- finding a place to live that is right for you
- access to education, employment and training opportunities
- access to health services (such as doctor, dentist and hospital)
- managing your money and how to pay bills
- learning all the skills you need to live independently (such as cooking and cleaning)
- support to do the things you enjoy (such as leisure, sports, interests and hobbies)
- developing your confidence and self–esteem
- managing relationships, including with your birth family where this is appropriate
Contact us
Next Step
Salford Opportunities Centre
2 Paddington Close
Salford, M6 5PL
- Call: 0161 607 1888
- Email: nextstepsadmin@salford.gov.uk
- Service manager: Phil Varghese
- Practice managers: Natalie Hughes and Emma Parkinson
- Salford’s emergency out of hour’s service number: 0161 603 4500
Your income / money:
If you are under 18 years of age, you will not be entitled to claim most benefits. Instead, Next Step has the responsibility of supporting you financially. How much you receive will depend on your circumstances.
As from 1st April 2023 those who have not accessed their ‘setting up home allowance’ are entitled to £3000.
(For those who have accessed the ‘legacy leaving care grant’ the original figure of £2000 will remain the same)
You may also get an additional financial support package if you are going into higher education.
More about Next Step leaving care.