Commitment to Achieving Net Zero

Next Steps Ltd is committed to achieving Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, in line with UK Government targets.

We recognise our responsibility as a supported living provider to minimise environmental impact while delivering high-quality, person-centred support. We are committed to embedding sustainability across all areas of our operations and continuously improving our environmental performance.

Organisational Overview

Next Steps Ltd provides supported living services to people with autism, learning disabilities, and mental health needs. Our operations are primarily community-based, delivered within individuals’ homes and supported environments.

Our environmental impact is largely associated with:

• Energy use within supported living properties
• Staff travel between locations
• Procurement of goods and services
• Waste generation

Baseline Emissions Footprint

Baseline Year: 2024

Scope Definitions

• Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned or controlled sources
• Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased energy
• Scope 3: All other indirect emissions (business travel, commuting, waste, supply chain)

Note: As a care provider operating within properties not owned by the organisation, emissions are estimated based on available data and operational modelling.

Current Emissions Reporting

We are committed to annual monitoring and reporting of emissions, ensuring transparency and continuous improvement. Our reporting includes all relevant emission scopes and aligns with recognised carbon accounting methodologies.

Carbon Reduction Measures

The following environmental management measures are currently implemented:

Energy Efficiency

• Promotion of energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting across supported living environments
• Encouraging responsible energy use among staff and people we support
• Monitoring energy consumption where feasible

Sustainable Travel

• Facilitating remote working and digital meetings
• Promoting walking, cycling, and public transport

Waste Reduction and Recycling

• Implementation of recycling across services
• Reduction of single-use plastics
• Promotion of digital documentation to minimise paper use
• Encouraging composting and responsible waste disposal

Sustainable Procurement

• Using local and environmentally responsible suppliers
• Using eco-friendly consumables and materials
• Consolidating orders and purchasing in bulk where appropriate to reduce delivery frequency, transport emissions, and packaging waste

Information Technology

• Use of energy-efficient and sustainably sourced IT equipment
• Responsible disposal via approved e-waste providers
• Digital systems to reduce paper consumption

Biodiversity and Environment

• Reducing use of chemicals and harmful materials
• Promoting environmentally responsible practices across services

Future Carbon Reduction Initiatives

To achieve Net Zero, we plan to:

• Further improve energy monitoring across all services
• Increase use of renewable energy sources where possible
• Strengthen supply chain sustainability requirements
• Introduce measurable carbon reduction targets year-on-year

Guidance and Engagement

We recognise that meaningful carbon reduction requires engagement across the organisation.

We will:

• Provide guidance on environmental sustainability to staff
• Raise awareness of climate responsibility across the organisation
• Support the people we support to adopt sustainable practices where appropriate
• Encourage staff involvement in environmental initiatives

Governance and Responsibility

Responsibility for delivering this Carbon Reduction Plan sits with management, supported by Team Leaders who oversee implementation across services.

Environmental performance is reviewed regularly, with progress monitored against agreed targets.

Last Modified: Apr 2026