Launch is Step by Step's dedicated early intervention service for young people aged 11-25. It provides tailored, wraparound support to young people who need it most. Whether someone is facing personal challenges, struggling with education or employment, or simply needs someone in their corner, Launch is there to help.
Contact Us TodayUnlike short-term advice services, Launch assigns every young person a dedicated Support Worker who remains with them throughout their journey. Support Workers provide consistent, one-to-one practical help, advocacy and emotional guidance.
Launch is more than advice and guidance – it is a trusted, proactive partnership built on empathy, professionalism and impact. As a key part of our early intervention and prevention strategy, Launch helps stop challenges from escalating, supports young people to make informed choices, and empowers them to move towards lasting independence.
Our model is:
Launch gives young people the tools, belief and backing to take positive steps forward. It is often their first step to a brighter future.
Launch support is structured around five core areas. This allows us to tailor our approach while offering holistic, joined-up help.
We support young people to build confidence, emotional resilience and self-esteem. This includes access to counselling, wellbeing sessions, signposting to mental health services, sexual health education, and help with developing healthy coping strategies.
Launch helps young people re-engage with education, build work readiness skills, find training opportunities, and secure volunteering or employment placements. We work with local providers and employers to open up meaningful pathways.
We support young people to access safe, stable housing, including advice on tenancies and housing rights, and referrals to our own accommodation services. This includes move-on properties where young people can live independently in the community, but with help from Step by Step should they need it. Our aim is to prevent homelessness before it begins.
Young people receive clear, honest guidance to help them understand their options and make informed decisions. We also provide advocacy, signposting and one-to-one support sessions focused on each person’s goals.
Launch provides non-judgemental, compassionate help with substance and alcohol misuse. We empower young people with the tools and strategies to take control of these issues.
Launch is open to any young person aged 11 to 25, regardless of their background or circumstances.
We work closely with schools, youth services, local authorities, charities and community partners. Signposting is a key part of our approach, and we will always ensure that young people are connected with the right support at the right time.
Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. Our staff are trained professionals, and our systems and policies are designed to keep young people safe, supported and heard.
Early support changes lives. When we intervene before a young person reaches crisis point, we not only reduce long-term harm, but make the most of their potential.
Research shows that early help is more effective and more cost-efficient than dealing with complex crises later on. It improves outcomes in education, health and housing, and contributes to stronger, more resilient communities.
Launch aligns with national priorities around prevention and targeted youth support. It is a proven, practical model for delivering meaningful early intervention in local areas.
Launch is largely funded by voluntary income. This gives us the freedom to design and deliver the service in the way young people need – not constrained by narrow eligibility criteria or rigid models. It means we can adapt, personalise, and innovate, putting young people first at every step.
Let’s work together to give young people the best possible start. Whether you’re a commissioner, professional, community partner or donor, we’d love to speak with you.
In 2023/24, Launch supported 831 young people – a 326% increase on the previous year. This remarkable growth has only been possible thanks to the generosity of donors who believe in the power of early support.
If you're inspired by the impact of Launch and want to help us keep this work going, your support can make a real difference.
Find out how Launch is changing hundreds of young lives each year, or how we can work together to sustain this vital service.
“I can't thank the wellbeing team enough. They have done more for me in this short space than anyone has done for me. I can finally see a light at the end of a long tunnel.”