Supporting adults with complex needs through meaningful community links
At Next Stage ‘A Way Forward’ Ltd, we know that independence doesn’t happen in isolation. For adults with complex needs, developing confidence and life skills often begins with meaningful engagement in the local community. That’s where our Community Link Coordinators come in, and none more experienced than Senior CLC Jacob Sandland.
With over seven years at Next Stage, Jacob plays a key role in supporting people to explore new opportunities and build fuller, more independent lives through education, employment, volunteering and connection.
From personal passion to professional purpose
Jacob’s journey into social care started with a personal connection.
“When I first supported someone with complex needs, I didn’t realise how much it would change me. I knew then this was the kind of work I wanted to do long-term.”
Originally on a path to becoming a teacher, Jacob’s experience supporting a family friend led him to a life-changing career in adult social care. What began as five hours of support a week has since become a full-time passion for helping others thrive.
Leading by example as a Senior CLC
As a Senior Community Link Coordinator, Jacob’s role is as varied as it is rewarding.
“No two days are the same, but every day is about helping people move forward in a way that makes sense to them.”
His responsibilities go beyond direct support. Jacob mentors other CLCs, builds lasting relationships with external partners, and shapes service development across the North west. Whether it’s helping someone find their first volunteering role or collaborating with commissioners on a new opportunity, the goal is always the same: meaningful progress.
Key aspects of Jacob’s role include:
- Supporting adults with complex needs to identify and pursue personal goals
- Building and maintaining community partnerships
- Coaching new CLCs and sharing best practice
- Acting as a link between services, housing, and commissioning teams
Celebrating growth and success
Every step forward counts and Jacob is quick to celebrate progress in all forms.
“The proudest moments aren’t always the big milestones. Sometimes it’s just seeing someone walk into a space they once found too scary. That’s huge.”
One success is the Community Link Champion initiative, which gives people the chance to support others while gaining confidence and skills themselves. From revisiting a passion for floristry to taking on peer mentorship roles, the outcomes speak for themselves.
A culture of learning and development
At Next Stage, continuous learning is part of the job. Jacob regularly attends training and sector events, including trauma-informed care and digital innovation in social care.
“You never stop learning in this job. And you never stop being inspired by the people around you, whether that’s the team or the people we support.”
As Senior CLC, he also plays a key role in sharing learning across the team, helping shape a responsive and reflective culture that puts people at the centre.
Supporting people to build the lives they want
The heart of Jacob’s work, and the wider CLC role, is person-centred support. That means listening carefully, breaking down goals into manageable steps, and finding creative ways to overcome barriers.
“This job isn’t about being perfect, it’s about showing up, listening, and being willing to grow alongside the people you support.”
It’s a role that requires patience, care, and a genuine belief in people’s potential, values that are woven into everything Next Stage does.
Looking ahead
Supporting adults with complex needs is more than a service; it’s a relationship. Through roles like Jacob’s, we continue to strengthen those relationships, creating more opportunities for connection, independence and joy.
“Shaping the future to create a better day, every day”
If you’d like to learn more about the work of our Community Link Coordinators or how to join our growing team, get in touch here.
