For parents and carers
You know your young person best. We take time to listen, understand what has been difficult and talk through whether Forge could be the right next step.
For families and professionals
Clear, thoughtful support around every young person.
Whether you are a parent, carer, school, local authority or referral partner, Forge offers a considered route into flexible, relationship-led alternative provision for young people aged 5–18 in BCP, Dorset.
Starting from where you are
For schools and professionals
We work alongside education, pastoral, SEND and wider professional teams to create a practical, individual plan with clear communication throughout.
For local authorities and partners
Our locally focused provision can complement existing support, helping young people rebuild engagement through meaningful, achievable experiences.
Who we work with
Referral eligibility and what to expect.
Forge works with young people aged 8–18 who are based in BCP or Dorset and are not currently accessing full-time education. We accept referrals from families, schools, local authorities and other professional partners.
Young people we support are typically:
- Aged 5–18 and living in BCP or Dorset
- Not currently attending school full-time, or at risk of becoming unable to do so
- Experiencing barriers such as anxiety, school refusal, SEMH needs, exclusion or a breakdown in placement
- In need of a flexible, relationship-led approach rather than a traditional classroom setting
- Without a current alternative provision placement, or where existing provision is not meeting their needs
The referral process in detail
- 01
Initial enquiry
Contact us by phone, email or through the enquiry form on this site. You do not need a formal referral document at this stage — a brief description of the young person's situation is enough to begin.
- 02
Initial conversation
We will arrange a call or meeting with the referrer and, where appropriate, the family or carer. This is an informal conversation to understand the young person's background, current needs and what has been tried before.
- 03
Meeting the young person
With consent, we will arrange a relaxed, informal meeting with the young person — at a neutral venue or outdoors if that feels more comfortable. There is no pressure and no assessment. This is simply a chance to begin building trust.
- 04
Agreeing a pathway
If Forge feels like the right fit, we will work with the young person, their family and any relevant professionals to agree a personalised, visual pathway. This sets out activities, goals and checkpoints in a format the young person can understand and contribute to.
- 05
Starting provision
Provision begins gradually, at a pace that suits the young person. We maintain regular communication with families and referrers, and the pathway is reviewed and updated as the young person progresses.
If you are unsure whether Forge is the right fit, please get in touch anyway. We are happy to have an informal conversation and, if we are not the right provision, we will do our best to point you in a helpful direction.
Making a referral
A calm and collaborative first conversation.
- 01
Get in touch
Share a little about the young person, their current situation and the kind of support you are exploring.
- 02
Talk it through
We will have an initial conversation with the right people to understand needs, strengths, hopes and any important considerations.
- 03
Plan together
If Forge feels appropriate, we will agree an editable visual pathway with clear checkpoints, supporting wellbeing, learning and gradual re-engagement.
Every young person is different. We consider each enquiry individually and work in partnership with the people who know them best.
Joined-up support, without losing the human connection.
A positive pathway is rarely created by one person alone. We value clear, respectful communication with families, carers, schools and professionals throughout a young person’s time with Forge.
Our approach stays flexible and grounded in what is working. Together, we can identify small steps that build confidence, strengthen routines and move towards a more positive future.
A considered next step
Let’s explore the right next step.
If you are considering support for a young person, we would be pleased to start with a conversation.
Make an enquiry