Based in Neath/Port Talbot Forward Steps is committed to promoting positive outcomes for ‘looked after’ young people facing the prospect of placement disruption.

The project working alongside young people provides a range of intensive interventions including:
· Counselling
· Outreach
· Crisis intervention
· Life story work
· Group work
· Advocacy
· Family work

Independent research conducted by the University of Cardiff found significant stakeholder satisfaction particularly amongst carers and young people. Many of the university’s findings confirmed many of the project’s own experiences, particularly with regard to placement stability where over eighty per cent of young people avoid unplanned endings whilst involved with Forward Steps. Similarly since becoming operational all those young people attending the project have been attending education or work prior to the conclusion of their involvement. It would also appear that young people accessing the service rarely indulge in offending behaviour, refrain from absconding and generally achieve positive outcomes that contribute to their ‘happiness safety and development’

In brief it would appear that Forward Steps contributes positively to a group of young people who have previously experienced social exclusion and limited life chances.