THE official opening of the Next Steps Hub at Fisherrow Centre took place on Friday, 19 September, marking a major milestone in inclusive community support for young adults with additional needs.
Co-designed with participants and rooted in community life, Next Steps, operated by Teens+, offers a pioneering alternative to traditional day services. The Hub at the Fisherrow Centre is the first of its kind in the Lothians, providing a pathway for young people to transition from school, college, or full-time care settings into more independent and fulfilling lives.
A Tailored, Inclusive Approach
The Hub supports up to 10 young people in its first year, with plans to grow to 30 by 2027. It offers:
- A 1:3 staff-to-Trainee ratio for tailored support
- Accredited learning and practical life skills
- Support for community-based opportunities, including work and volunteering
- A calm, inclusive environment shaped by the young people themselves
Each day includes a mix of structured sessions, social time, volunteering, and skill-building activities, all tailored to the goals and interests of each young person.
A Community Celebration
The opening event featured remarks from Teens+ leadership, Fisherrow Centre, and East
Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership. Attendees toured the new space and met staff,
participants, and families.
The Fisherrow Hub joins a growing network of Teens+ services across Edinburgh and
Musselburgh, continuing the charity’s mission to ensure every young person has the
opportunity to thrive.
Caitlin Nightingale, Next Steps Manager, said:
“Fisherrow is a great community, and they have been so welcoming. It means a great deal to open our first Next Steps Hub here. Our Trainees who have started at the Hub have already integrated so well, created friendships, and begun exploring what the future looks like. We are excited to support them in realising their potential.”
Parent Hamish Colgan said:
“The Next Step Hub means a lot to us and our son. I think it’s a great chance for him to meet other people, learn these social skills, and become more independent in the community.”
Aiden Reiss-Finlay, Fisherow Trust Business Development Manager, added:
“Inclusive services are vital to Musselburgh and the wider community because they ensure
all individuals, including those from marginalised backgrounds, with disabilities, or with
complex social needs, have equal access to opportunities, resources, and a sense of
belonging. We are proud to support Teens+ and the Next Steps Hub.”
Next Steps is nominated for the Self-Management in the Community Award, hosted by The
Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE), the national third sector
membership organisation for the health and social care sector.
