Make a Referral
Every Referral, a Stepping Stone Toward Success Working In Partnership With Over 100+ Local Authorities
Who Can Make a Referral?
Local Authority Teams
Placement and Commissioning teams.
Dedicated Social Workers
Professionals managing the child's care plan.
Commissioners
Service procurement and contract management.
Multi-Agency Professionals
Health, education, and youth justice partners.
The Stepping Stones Referral Journey
Initial Enquiry
When a local authority or professional makes an enquiry, our referrals team respond promptly and with care. We gather the essential information — such as referral documents, risk assessments and care plans — to begin building a clear picture of the child’s needs. From the very first contact, our focus is on open communication, transparency and making the process straightforward, so professionals feel supported and children are at the centre of every decision.
Child-Centred Assessments
When a local authority reaches out to us our dedicated referrals team respond quickly and personally. We take time to gather the right information from referral documents to risk assessments so we can start to understand the child as an individual not just a file. From the very first conversation, we make the process clear and straightforward working in partnership with professionals and keeping the child’s best interests at the heart of every step.
Careful Matching
At Stepping Stones Children’s Homes we believe every child deserves a chance but we also know that chance must come in the right environment. That’s why our Registered Managers complete an in-depth risk and impact assessment for every child carefully considering their needs, strengths and vulnerabilities. This process goes beyond paperwork; it’s about truly understanding each young person and ensuring the home can meet their needs safely and effectively. By making sure the child and the home are the right fit for each other we create the conditions where safety, stability and growth can happen giving every young person the best opportunity to thrive.
Collaborative Care Planning
At Stepping Stones Children’s Homes we know the best outcomes come from working together. That’s why care planning is a collaborative process involving children, their families, social workers and other professionals. Guided by our Registered Managers each plan is tailored to reflect the child’s needs, aspirations and risks while ensuring consistency with their long-term goals. By bringing everyone’s voice to the table we create care plans that are not only effective but meaningful giving children the right support to feel safe and grow in confidence and achieve their potential.
Placement & Ongoing Support
At Stepping Stones Children’s Homes every placement begins with a child at the centre. We make transitions as smooth and welcoming as possible so young people feel safe and supported from their very first day. Ongoing support is shaped around each child’s needs and goals with regular reviews, therapeutic input and close partnership with professionals. This ensures every plan grows with the child helping them build confidence, resilience and a brighter future.
Right Steps, Right Time, Real Change
At Stepping Stones Children’s Homes we make sure young people receive the right support at the right time and that we get it right the first time. With carefully matched placements and consistent therapeutic care we create stability that breaks the cycle of disruption and failed placements. Our homes give children the safe foundations they need to settle, grow and take confident steps toward lasting futures.
We aim for a seamless, child-centered transition.
Start the Referral Process Today
Contact Our Dedicated Team
Our team is available to discuss any potential referral confidentially.
Confidentiality & Compliance Assured
Stepping Stones Children’s Homes Limited follow confidentiality and compliance that underpins every referral we receive. We are ICO registered and follow strict data protection standards to ensure all information is handled securely and with respect.
Our homes operate in line with the Children’s Homes Regulations 2015, Ofsted requirements and safeguarding legislation with regular audits and quality assurance checks giving professionals confidence and children the protection they deserve.