Why The Next Step Collective was born.
My name is Sheryl and I am the founder of The Next Step Collective, Bizzily Local and The Practical Growth Coach.
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I created The Next Step Collective CIC because I’ve seen how many women feel stuck, isolated, or unsure of what comes next after life changes. Whether it’s motherhood, loss, illness, or time away from work, rebuilding confidence and direction isn’t easy, especially when you’re doing it alone.
I’m passionate about creating a space where women feel supported, understood and empowered to move forward at their own pace. This isn’t about pressure or perfection, it’s about helping women feel capable again, build real skills, and take their next step with confidence.
This organisation was born from lived experience, not just an idea.
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Over the years, I’ve seen (and lived) how life can quietly knock confidence, direction and self-belief. Motherhood, isolation, career changes, long periods of doing everything alone, health challenges, and the pressure to “just get on with it” can leave women feeling stuck, disconnected and unsure where they fit anymore.
I know what it’s like to feel capable on the inside, but held back by confidence, circumstances, and lack of support.
And I also know how powerful it is when the right support shows up.
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The idea for The Next Step Collective CIC grew from working closely with women who wanted more.....
more confidence, more opportunity, more connection, but didn’t know how to take that next step on their own.
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I kept hearing the same things:
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“I’ve lost my confidence.”
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“I feel isolated doing everything alone.”
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“I don’t know where I fit anymore.”
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“I want to move forward, but I don’t know how.”
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I realised that what was missing wasn’t ability or ambition, it was support, community, and access to opportunities that felt realistic, safe and accessible.
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The Next Step Collective CIC exists to bridge that gap.
Meet The Team
Hello, I’m Sally, and I’m proud to be joining The Next Step Collective CIC as a Director.
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I’m the founder of S&L Self-Harm Distraction Kits and live in King's Lynn, Norfolk. Joining The Next Step Collective CIC feels like a natural extension of the work I am passionate about. I strongly believe that every person deserves access to support, understanding, and opportunities to move forward, no matter what challenges they are facing.
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I am excited to be part of a CIC that is committed to helping women build confidence, develop skills, improve wellbeing, and take positive steps towards their future.
My name is Lousie and I'm proud to be joining The Next Step Collective CIC as a Director.
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Born and raised in Suffolk, I've always been passionate about supporting my local community and helping people reach their potential. Sheryl and I first met when we were both pregnant, and we've shared many years of friendship, support, and life experiences together. When she told me about her vision for The Next Step Collective CIC and asked me to be part of it, I didn't hesitate.
I believe every woman deserves the confidence, support, and opportunities to take their next step and I'm excited to be part of this journey and can't wait to help make a positive difference in our community.