Our Mission

At Acorn Independence, we’re committed to helping young people and care leavers reach their full potential.
We provide safe, nurturing environments where dedicated staff offer consistent, therapeutic support. Our approach focuses on building independence through life skills, encouraging personal growth, and supporting access to education, training, and employment 

Looking after adolescents in care requires more than good intentions — it demands professionalism, skill, and the right mindset. These young people need consistency, trust, and adults who are trained, emotionally aware, and committed to their development.

At the heart of quality care is a team of professionals who are not only passionate, but also well-prepared. That’s why we focus on employing staff who are carefully selected, well-trained, and supported to do their best work.

My name is Kim, I am the registered service manager at Acorn Independence.  I have worked within the health and social care sector for the past 20 years specialising in Autism, learning disabilities and mental health. 

I've been registered with both CQC and Ofsted and am dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of the young people we support. 

I recently completed my level 6 graduateship in leadership and management graduating at Royal Sandhurst academy was a very proud moment. 

When I’m not working, I enjoy paddle boarding with my daughter, I love being on the water- not so much in the water! I have a golden retriever called Winston who I take on lot’s adventures, coastal walks and camping are his favourite.  

With over 20 years of experience in Health and Social Care, I began my career within NHS Clinical Psychology Services before transitioning into the social care sector, working across both charity and private organisations. I have extensive leadership experience, having managed a wide range of services including groups of children’s homes, supported living, outreach programmes, specialist autism services, short breaks for both children and adults, step-down services for young people under the Mental Health Act, and community treatment orders.

Since April 2018, I have served as Director of Care at Acorn Independence, overseeing the development and delivery of high-quality support services. In addition to my UK-based work, I have contributed to the development of social care policy in the UAE. I hold registrations with both Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC), reflecting my commitment to regulatory compliance and excellence in care provision.

I have been a Director of Care for Acorn Independence since April 2018 and have also been working with the UAE as they develop their social care policy.

I have held registration with Ofsted and CQC.

Hello my name is Lucy,

I Started with Acorn Independence in 2021 as a support worker stepping up to a home manager for our Exeter home "Fleming Way"  in 2023.

Before joining Acorn I worked as a support worker, volunteered as a mentor for young people and completed a masters degree in Psychology.  

I find it very rewarding supporting young people who have faced instability, trauma, or rejection, sometimes, all it takes is one adult who sees a young person’s potential before they see it themselves and start making changes.

I am also a new mother which keeps me very busy and on my toes running after him outside of work. 

Hi, my name Is Lauren.

I joined Acorn in 2022 as the Outbound and Wellbeing Lead whilst finishing my training as a Counsellor. I had previously spent years in hospitality management, before making the move into working with young people first as a mentor for young people experiencing EBSA , as a director of an outdoor education company and then as therapeutic support for children in care. I am now qualified as a Counsellor with a special interest in Somatic Trauma Therapy.

I love my work and am passionate about advocating and empowering young people in difficult circumstances. I believe in the power of positive and trusting relationships, providing new experiences and building a sense of agency to support our young people in their move into adulthood.