Alternative Care Arrangements

Next Step’s therapeutic Alternate Care Arrangements (ACA) team is able to support young people in ‘crisis’ utilising a strength based framework of engagement. The team at Next Step Inc works in partnership with the Department of Communities andf Justice (DCJ) or designated agency to provide 2:1 or 1:1 support. Next Step utilises a strength based and ecological model of engagement which focuses on providing a safe, structured and predictable environment to support and stabilise the child or young person’s distress during transition into care within a FACS or NGO crisis placement. Next Step is an approved Non Placement Support Services provider to Family and Community Services.  

Next Step collaboratively with  DCJ to assess key outcomes/supports to be in place for the child or young person. Next Step's care team will assess and support the child or young person with the implementation of behaviour plans, safety plans, risk assessments while Next Step is supporting the child or young person in crisis.

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Next Step's ACA team is highly skilled in supporting complex behaviours. Next Step's team have undergone stringent Working With Childrens Checks and National Police Checks and hold a Certificate 1V, Diploma or Degree in Community Services, Mental health, Disability Services or Youth Work. 

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Next Step also provides after hours on-call support to our team to assist with managing and supporting children and young people displaying complex behaviour. This is facilitated by our Senior Management team who have extensive on-call expertise and knowledge in the management of high complex and challenging behaviours. 

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Please email to find out more about how our team can assist or call: 0468 942 377