IMAGINE OUR WORLD Strategic Plan 2025
Foreword As Chair of Trustees, it is both a privilege and a responsibility to introduce Nugent's new strategic plan. This document marks a pivotal moment in our journey, encapsulating our unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering those in our communities. It sets forth our vision for the future and provides a roadmap for achieving impactful and sustainable change. At Nugent, our mission is rooted in compassion, respect, and innovation. Since 1881, we have strived to be a beacon of hope and a source of strength for individuals, families, and communities in need. This strategic plan reflects the values that guide us and the aspirations that drive us to continually evolve and adapt in an ever-changing world. The development of this plan has been a collaborative effort, drawing on insights from our dedicated colleagues, volunteers, partners, and, most importantly, the people whose lives we touch. It is through these collective voices that we have identified key priorities and opportunities to deepen our impact and extend our reach. Over the coming years, we will focus on: Accommodation Employability Poverty Alleviation Quality of Life Making Memories
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These priorities are not just aspirations; they are our promise to those who rely on Nugent. We are determined to navigate the challenges ahead with resilience, creativity, and a steadfast belief in the potential of every individual to thrive. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributes to Nugent's success. Together, we can achieve extraordinary things, transforming lives and building a brighter, more inclusive future for all. This strategic plan is a call to action to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity, purpose, and hope.
John-Paul John-Paul Dennis Chair of Trustees Nugent
Table of Contents 04 What We Do 06 Introduction from Chief Executive 10 Our Values 12 Susie’s Story 16 Vision - Lifelong Pathway 16 Our Vision and Strategic Priorities 19 Accommodation 22 Employability 23 Poverty Alleviation 24 Quality of Life 25 Making Memories 26 Families 28 Education 30 Children’s 32 Adults 36 Property 38 Business Support 40 Our Future Now 44 Pathway Alliance 46 Testimonials 48 About Us
About Us The origins of Nugent date back to the 1800’s and the pioneering work of Father James Nugent (1822-1905) in child welfare, relief from poverty and social reform. His work had a dramatic impact on the lives of thousands of vulnerable people. We remain dedicated to making a positive difference for the people who need us, helping our communities to thrive. Nugent’s initiative ‘Our Future Now’ focuses on helping provide support not Nugent is a registered charity and is covered by public funding. We recognise therefore regulated by the Charity that shortfalls are leaving our Commission. The Local Authorities communities without adequate support. across the Liverpool City Region and While we face challenges due to limited beyond as well as the national resources, we believe that through regulators including Care Quality fundraising, community engagement, Commission (CQC), and Ofsted, and collaboration with like-minded contract and license us to provide organisations, we can create effective services. solutions. We offer a diverse range of support for adults and children through our homes, education, families, community and social work services. As a provider of a wide range of essential support, we work at the heart of some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.
We strive to provide the best possible support for those who need us and are committed to generating awareness and a greater understanding of the issues our communities face. The children and adults we support often face multifaceted challenges, and, like all providers, we are working to manage the rising costs of meeting those needs not always fully covered by available funding. In response, Nugent is diversifying its income streams through various initiatives. Our approach is designed to sustain our services amid a shifting funding landscapes and the growing complexity of community needs.
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Kings Dock Port of Liverpool
What We Do Families
Nugent Adoption, a Voluntary Adoption Agency based in the North West of England, has supported adoptions since 1943. Our experienced team provides tailored support to adopters, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Ofsted-registered, Nugent Adoption works with Local Authorities and Regional Adoption Agencies across the UK, specialising in both domestic and international adoptions. The agency also offers ongoing support to adoptees and birth families. As members of CoramBAAF and CVAA, Nugent Adoption is committed to helping vulnerable children find safe, loving families.
Education
Nugent is a trusted provider of Ofsted-registered specialist education, working collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure a student-focused approach. In partnership with the DfE and local authorities, we maintain a transparent and efficient referral process, ensuring each child experiences an education most suited to their specific needs. We work with every individual, their families and carers to ensure a personalised education experience; all students have their own bespoke programme designed to engage, inspire and encourage whilst also providing therapeutic, pastoral and holistic support.
Children’s homes
Nugent's Ofsted-registered Children's homes consist of one secure provision and a number of homes offering a warm, welcoming, and safe family environment for vulnerable, traumatised, and disadvantaged children and young people. Our dedicated, experienced, and qualified colleagues provide the highest standard of support, tailored to meet the unique needs of each child in our care. Each home focuses on delivering positive experiences and emotional support, helping children to heal, grow, and thrive in a nurturing setting.
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Adult homes
Our homes offer specialised support for adults, one for acquired brain injuries, neurological disorders, and physical disabilities, another focused on mental health support and one home for older people. We provide a safe, comfortable environment where the people in our homes receive personalised support designed to enhance their quality of life and promote independence. With a focus on dignity and compassion, our skilled teams work closely with each person to meet their unique needs and goals. Ultimately ensuring each person thrives in a community that respects their abilities and aspirations.
Support in the Community
We provide support focused on strengthening communities, by delivering vital services to those in need whenever and wherever they need them. Through tailored support, we help adults with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health challenges thrive within their communities. Our supported living and outreach services ensure those that need us receive support, while our dispersed accommodation offers stability to individuals at risk of homelessness. With initiatives like Our Future Now, the Pantry and Hygiene Hub, we work to meet essential needs, promote dignity, and foster a sense of belonging for everyone in the community.
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Clumber Lodge Nugent
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Introduction It is my pleasure to share with you our strategic plan. This is very much a vision that embraces the ethos of togetherness and collaboration, to create a lifelong pathway of care that truly supports people in need.
It is no secret that Nugent’s greatest asset
We stand at the threshold of an exciting new chapter, making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we support. Whilst this vision captures Nugent’s ambition for the coming years, it is also a roadmap to delivering transformative change across the communities we work with.
This plan sets out to enhance their
The Liverpool City Region is a vibrant, diverse area with deep social and economic challenges, but also rich opportunities. Guided by our experience, local knowledge, and engagement with stakeholders, we have identified our five key strategic priorities to drive positive change and deliver impactful results.
include:
Since 1881, Nugent has been a cornerstone of hope and empowerment within the region. Today, we find ourselves surrounded by economic uncertainty and needing to evolve to continue this legacy. Our strategy is not just about responding to immediate needs but also about building resilience, promoting independence, and shaping a brighter future for the people in our communities. Our ‘Imagine Our World…’ strategic plan sets a course of transformation and evolution for the charity. Driven by bold ideas and exciting innovation, this plan enables us to diversify our income and provide support to people where public funding struggles to reach.
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is its colleagues – the dedicated, resilient, and selfless individuals who strive everyday to improve the lives of those supported by our charity.
experience of working with Nugent, with the aim to be an employer of choice. Underpinning this strategy, is a series of plans that will achieve our objectives. Many of these are in progress and already delivering desired outcomes. These
Financial Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Environment, Social, and Governance Safeguarding Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Information Technology Together with our dedicated team of colleagues, partners, and supporters, we are proud to serve our communities, delivering high-quality, compassionate social care that empowers individuals and enriches lives. We are dreaming big, and we invite you to dream big with us, as together we can and will, provide a lifelong pathway of support for individuals and communities in need.
“Our strategy is not just about responding to immediate needs but also about building resilience, promoting independence, and shaping a brighter future for those we serve.”
Jo Henney
Chief Executive
Our Values In order to fulfil our mission and purpose we have agreed on a set of values that are the foundation of our beliefs and our behaviours throughout the organisation. These values were created in collaboration with the people we support, colleagues, volunteers, and stakeholders. The definition of the word ‘accord’ means to signify an official agreement. The values identified, come together to form this acronym, including the ‘i’ at the front of the acronym standing for ‘integrity’. This leads to an indication that ‘one agrees.’
Integrity
We are honest in what we say and do
Ambition
We have high hopes for the future
Courage
We stand up for what we know is right
Compassion
Optimism
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We are kind and support each other We believe we can
Respect
We accept one another and look after all we share
Dignity
We value ourselves and each other
Our values support our desire to foster a culture of trust, that is inclusive, and embraces continuous improvement
Liverpool Waterfront
*Name changed to protect anonymity
Susie’s Story
Susie* lived at one of our children’s home for just over two years, she had a challenging relationship with her mum but loved her little sister Hope and her Nan. Susie wanted to stay at the home. Following a discussion with Ofsted and the local authority it was agreed she could stay until she turned 18. This meant that she could enjoy Christmas in her home with the team and her friends, who she had built positive relationships with. Sadly, Susie was required to move out of the children’s home into her own flat on her own in 2021 aged 18. When Susie visited our home, the team recognised that she was low in mood and self-harming. The team offered support to Susie. It was clear that Susie was struggling emotionally and often stated that she was lonely and hated her flat. Susie would visit the home often to see her friends and have tea. In 2021, Susie was found lying on Lime Street train track, she was quickly admitted into a psychiatric hospital. Susie was released from the hospital to her independent living apartment. However, she was admitted back into hospital many times as a result of wanting to take her own life. In March 2022 whilst admitted to hospital, Susie took her own life. A year after leaving the home, aged 19. Susie’s story deeply resonates with everything we do at Nugent. It reminds us of the vital importance of providing continuous support, not just up to 18, but throughout every stage of life. Her experience highlights the risks of social isolation and the critical need for consistent, compassionate support, no matter a person’s age or circumstances. Susie’s journey has shaped our vision of seamless, full-life care - ensuring that no one faces life’s challenges alone. Susie’s legacy drives us to protect and support vulnerable individuals at every step, so that everyone has a chance to flourish.
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54% 7% Between 2018 and 2024, the number of care leavers aged 18 to 20 assessed as facing homelessness in England rose by 54%, from 2,790 to over 4,300.
https://becomecharity.org.uk/content/uploads/2 024/10/Homelessness-stats_Oct-24.pdf
Care leavers constitute approximately 1% of the population aged 18 to 20 but account for around 7% of deaths in this age group, indicating a higher mortality rate compared to their peers. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-38961818
25% 4x Care leavers make up 25% of the adult homeless population. https://homeforgood.org.uk/statist ics/care-leavers
Care leavers are four times more likely to take their own life than the general population. https://learningandwork.org.uk/what-wedo/social-justice-inclusion/care-leavers/
Imagine Our World
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OUR VISION Together, provide a lifelong pathway of support for individuals and communities in need
Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral Mount Pleasant
Our Strategic Priorities Accommodation Providing safe spaces for those in need
Employability Empowering individuals with the skills and resources needed to secure employment and build sustainable livelihoods
Poverty Alleviation Seeking to address all forms of poverty, such as food, hygiene, and financial crisis
Quality of Life Strengthen the ability of the people we support and our colleagues to sustain a healthy quality of life.
Making Memories Creating opportunities for individuals and families to experience joy, break cycles of adversity and create lasting memories
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Accommodation
141%
Between 2017/18 and 2023/24, rough sleeping in Liverpool increased by 141% https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckgw1rnqknyo#:~:text=A%20 council%20has%20said%20it,over%20the%20last%20six%20years.
The Accommodation priority is committed to providing safe, supportive spaces for those in vulnerable situations. Whether offering refuge for individuals fleeing domestic violence, helping young people transition out of care, or supporting those experiencing homelessness, we strive to ensure everyone has access to secure and affordable housing. Beyond providing accommodation, we focus on long-term stability; offering care, guidance, and resources to help people rebuild their lives. To strengthen this commitment, we are working towards becoming a registered housing provider, allowing us to expand our property portfolio, support local developers, and diversify our income streams. This approach is essential to safeguarding Nugent’s future, ensuring we can continue Father Nugent’s legacy while adapting to a changing landscape. By investing in sustainable housing solutions, we can create more opportunities for those in need and build a stronger foundation for lasting change.
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Employability
7.5% As of August 2024, the unemployment rate in Liverpool stood at 7.5%, higher than the national average of 3.9%. https://liverpool.gov.uk/council/key-statistics-anddata/headline-indicators/labour-market/
At Nugent, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to build a fulfilling future. Our employability work also focuses on supporting care leavers and those who have faced challenges with mainstream education, helping them gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed. We work to break down barriers that prevent people from accessing employment. Through proactive engagement, we provide: Personalised career guidance to help individuals find the right path. Training and skills development to increase likelihood employability. Access to work placements and job opportunities in supportive environments. Ongoing mentorship and support to sustain long-term success. By empowering individuals with the tools to progress, we are not just helping them find jobs—we are helping them build brighter, more independent futures. At Nugent, employability is more than just work; it’s about giving people the confidence and skills to thrive in life.
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Poverty Alleviation
32.3% In 2023, 32.3% of children under 16 in Liverpool lived in low-income families, significantly above the UK average of 20.1% https://liverpool.gov.uk/council/key-statistics-anddata/headline-indicators/deprivation/
At Nugent, we are committed to tackling the root causes of poverty, ensuring that individuals and families have access to the essentials they need to live with dignity. Poverty Alleviation goes beyond immediate relief; it focuses on long-term solutions that help people build more secure and independent futures. Through Nugent’s Pantry, we provide nutritious food to those facing financial hardship, ensuring no one goes hungry. Our Hygiene Hub offers essential personal care and household products, recognising that poverty affects more than just food security—it impacts every aspect of daily life. By reducing barriers to basic necessities, offering practical support, and working towards sustainable solutions, we aim to alleviate hardship and empower individuals and families to break free from the cycle of poverty. Through targeted programmes, partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, we are committed to creating opportunities for lasting change.
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Quality of Life
3rd
Liverpool ranks as the 3rd most deprived local authority in England, with significant challenges in income, employment, health, and living environment https://liverpool.gov.uk/council/key-statistics-anddata/headline-indicators/labour-market/
We believe that a strong quality of life is the foundation for long-term well-being. Our commitment to this strategic priority ensures that everyone we support, as well as our colleagues, have the tools, environment, and guidance needed to lead fulfilling and balanced lives. For the people we support, we will:: Provide support that nurtures emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Ensure access to high-quality support that adapts to individual needs and promotes dignity. Encourage social connections and meaningful engagement to reduce loneliness and increase happiness. For our colleagues, we will: Promote well-being through mental health support, flexible working, and professional development. Create a positive, inclusive workplace where employees feel valued and supported. Encourage work-life balance to sustain motivation, energy, and overall job satisfaction. By prioritising Quality of Life, we ensure that every individual—whether receiving or providing support—can live and work in an environment that fosters happiness, stability, and long-term well-being.
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Making Memories
72%
research indicates that positive childhood experiences, including supportive family interactions and community connections, are associated with a 72% reduction in the likelihood of experiencing depression in adulthood. https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2019/for-better-adult-mental-andrelational-health-boost-positive-childhood-experiences
Making Memories is dedicated to providing cherished moments for those in our communities facing adversity. We believe that moments of joy are more than just temporary relief, whether it’s a child going on their first trip, a family who has struggled finally having a day to celebrate together, or an adult picking up a hobby they once loved— these are the experiences that can change the course of a person’s life. By shifting the focus from trauma and negative emotions to uplifting and positive experiences, we aim to bring hope, inspire change, and pave the way for brighter futures.
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Roman Boathouse Birkenhead Park
Families
Strategic Objectives
Enhance Adoption Provision We will raise greater awareness of our Adoption service and enhance the therapeutic support for adopted families.
Community Hub We will work with the local community to provide a hub that will be accessible and bring together services such as practical support and information.
Domestic Abuse Accommodation and Support We will provide a place of safety for those who are subjected to domestic abuse, through appropriate housing and support.
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Education Strategic Objectives
Student-Centred Learning Programme We will introduce a studentcentred learning programme within our children’s homes to provide educational opportunities for our young people.
Vocational Education College We will provide training in vocational, employability, and independent living skills for 16 to 25 year olds with complex needs.
Integrated Therapeutic Home for 7 to 12 years We will establish an integrated therapeutic home for 7-12-yearolds with complex needs, providing comprehensive support, education, and therapy.
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Children’s Strategic Objectives
At Nugent, we are committed to providing a lifelong pathway of support for children and young people, ensuring they have the stability, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Our Children’s Services focus on creating safe, nurturing environments while equipping young people with the skills and confidence to transition into adulthood. We offer specialist residential care to children who have experienced trauma, adversity, or require additional support. Through our therapeutic and personcentered approach, we provide stability, emotional well-being, and tailored support to meet each child’s individual needs. As young people grow, our support evolves with them. We guide those transitioning from care into independent living, further education, and employment, ensuring they have the right tools to build a positive future. Our aim is not just to provide support but to empower young people to develop independence, resilience, and ambition as they move into adulthood.
Early Years/ Edge of Care
Care Leavers
Children’s
Residential Support
Specialised Residential Support
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Children’s Edge of Care Model We will provide respite provision to help prevent children from needing to leave their family by offering them a stable, enriching environment while supporting foster and kinship families with resources to strengthen caregiving and address challenges.
Increase number of children’s homes across LCR We will increase the number of children’s homes we provide across the Liverpool City Region, focusing on areas we have little or no provision.
Embed Integrated Care Model We will embed an integrated care model into our children’s homes, providing access to therapeutic services and personalised education plans.
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Care Leaver transition preparation We will support care leavers by providing tailored preparation for independent living, including life skills development, emotional support, and access to education, employment, and housing opportunities.
Supported Accommodation for Care Leavers We will provide accommodation for individuals leaving care, including pathways for those needing support and those who are more independent.
Community Hub We will work with the local community to provide a hub that will be accessible and bring together services such as practical support and information.
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Adults Strategic Objectives
Implement Care Pathways We will implement pathways covering specialist rehabilitation, outreach, mental health and general supported housing to enhance support and independence.
Community Hub We will work with the local community to provide a hub that will be accessible and bring together services such as practical support and information.
Remodel our Adult and Community Structure We will align our Adult and Community services, introducing area leads, to achieve an enhanced and integrated offering for the people we support.
Launch Extra Care Provision We will work with the local community to identify and launch our first extra care provision, which will offer support whilst maintaining independence.
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Property
Strategic Objectives
To safeguard the future of our charity, and continue the legacy of Father Nugent, we must diversify our income streams. We have identified lower risk income opportunities, and will take advantage of the strategic and financial position we find ourselves in. Therefore, a key objective within our strategy is to become a registered housing provider, enabling us to diversify our income streams. Becoming a registered housing provider will give us the potential to grow our property portfolio and support developers within the Liverpool City Region and beyond.
Become a Registered Housing Provider We will become a registered housing provider to truly support our vision, and build stronger relationships with local authorities and communities
Increase Property Portfolio We will increase our property portfolio to enable us to be flexible and responsive to the needs of local authorities and vulnerable communities.
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Business Support Strategic Objectives
Nugent has a range of business support functions that provide subject matter knowledge and experience. These departments remove many of the back-end systems and processes, to enhance compliance and empower frontline services to deliver improved person-centred support. These critical business functions also support Nugent Trustees and Leadership Team with charity governance and oversight, compliance, and development. The business support functions lead on initiatives such as targeted strategies and growth objectives.
Finance
Business Development
Marketing and Communications
People
Information Systems
Learning and Development
Departments within Business Support
Governance
Assets and Facilities
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Business Support Improved Recognition, Reward, and Benefits We will introduce improved recognition, reward, and benefits schemes, aiding our ability to attract and retain our colleagues.
Nugent Leadership Academy We will embed Nugent Leadership Academy across all colleague levels, and deliver courses to external candidates and organisations.
Strengthen Mental Health Support We will refresh and relaunch our Health, Safety, and Wellbeing strategy to support our colleagues mental health and reduce stress.
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Enhance governance and compliance processes We will enhance our governance and quality functions to monitor and support our activity as a compliant registered housing provider.
Create a Pathway Alliance We will create a Pathway Alliance, consisting of collaborative partners, to deliver improved quality and impact for the most vulnerable in our region.
Refreshed Approach to Recruitment We will review our approach to recruitment and address the barriers to raising awareness and attracting candidates to vacancies
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Our Future Now focuses on providing support across Liverpool City Region and beyond, whenever and wherever it’s most needed. Public funding shortfalls are leaving our communities without adequate support or guidance. We believe that despite the challenges we currently face, the solution is working collaboratively with those like Nugent, who are committed to finding solutions. The challenges we are focused on include mental health crises, unstable housing, poverty, deprivation, adverse childhood experiences, and other inequities. Without appropriate intervention at the earliest opportunity, these challenges can continue cycles of homelessness, unemployment, poor health, and marginalisation. Our Future Now strives to tackle systemic barriers and challenges head-on. Providing individuals and communities with appropriate resources, opportunities, and support networks is vital to achieving stability and personal growth. We are committed to working collaboratively with valued partners to deliver effective, co-designed services that align with Nugent’s vision of providing a lifelong pathway of support for those in need.
Enhancing Community Engagement We will increase community engagement, through shorter term interventions, that complement existing, long-term services across Nugent.
Develop New Services/Provisions We will grow and scale services across the five strategic priorities.
Volunteer Involvement and Experience We will enhance volunteer involvement, ensuring that volunteers have a meaningful, rewarding experience that drives long-term engagement.
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Pathway Alliance
Nugent are committed to enhancing support for vulnerable people through meaningful collaboration. The Pathway Alliance is a strategic partnership that brings together charity leaders across the Liverpool City Region and beyond to create a life-long pathway of care that meets complex needs, breaking down traditional organisational barriers.
This alliance is built on shared values and a commitment to providing seamless support, ensuring that individuals receive the right care at the right time. By working together, we aim to:
Develop key projects that directly improve outcomes for those in need. Identify gaps in existing pathways and create solutions to address them. Build a shared resource network of services and referral options to enhance accessibility. Strengthen communication and marketing efforts to raise awareness and reach more people. Foster a ‘YES’ culture, ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive the support they need without unnecessary barriers.
Through the Pathway Alliance, we are building a stronger, more connected support system that prioritises people over process.
Together, we will create a future where collaboration leads to lasting change.
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Another Place by Antony Gormley Crosby Beach
Testimonials
At Nugent, we believe that every experience and voice plays a crucial role in shaping the support we provide. Whether from the people we support, social workers, or dedicated colleagues, each testimonial helps us learn, grow, and improve as we continue to fulfil our mission of supporting vulnerable children, young people, and adults. This feedback is essential in helping us create a more compassionate and supportive community. Together We Are Nugent, and together, we make a difference.
Margaret Roper House Resident
Clumber Lodge Social Worker
I love living at Margaret Roper House, all of the staff and residents are lovely and I always get support when I need it!
I am very happy with the support staff have supported a young person, they have gone above and beyond to ensure her welfare and safety is paramount
New Beginnings Tenant
Marydale Team Member
I am very grateful for all the support I have received in my time and had the most growth that I have had throughout my whole life being with Nugent and the staff
I have been given the opportunity for progression and grown so much in my time here. It can be really hard and no two days are the same, but seeing the difference we make to children's lives makes everything worth it.
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Document Details Produced by: Kevin Williams, Director of Strategy and Transformation Megan O’Kane, Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Content by: Jo Henney, Chief Executive Hetal Mainwaring, Executive Director - People, Children and Families John Simms, Executive Director - Property, Commercial and OFN Keith Wilde, Executive Director - Adults Kevin Williams, Director of Strategy and Transformation Sally Brown, Director of Finance Lisa Taaffe, Director of Development and Engagement Suzanne Murray, Director of Children’s Services Gemma Dixon, Director of Education Jenny Ness, Head of Families & Registered Manager (Adoption)
Contributors: Nugent Leadership and their teams
Approved:
DR-0225
Revised:
0225
Version:
DR-0225 PNT1
Roman Boathouse Birkenhead Park
Corporate Trustee: Nugent Care 2019 Ltd, Registered Charity 1187072 Nugent Care Registered Charity: 1187072-1
0151 261 2000 wearenugent.org No. 99 Edge Lane, Liverpool, L7 2PE
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