A new project that aims to bring together Council employees and care experienced young people to co-design and implement new services has launched.

Relationships First is a ground-breaking project with one ultimate goal – to create services that improve support for young people as they prepare to leave, and after they have left, care.

But the project will only succeed if Council employees are willing to commit their time to work with care experienced young people to ensure our services better meet the needs of disadvantaged children.

Two information sessions have been organised to provide employees, who want to make a difference to the lives of young people, with an overview of the project, the commitment needed and the benefits of getting involved.

The sessions take place on Tuesday, May 28th from 2pm to 3:30pm and from 4pm to 5:30pm in Rossvail Training Room, 108 Glasgow Road, Camelon. You can find out more and book a place at Eventbrite.

Evelyn Kennedy, Service Manager - Workforce Development, said: "Public servants are Corporate Parents to young people in and leaving care. That means we have a legal and moral responsibility to care for care leavers as if they were our own child, but most public services have not been designed to enable the workforce to do this fully.

“Through no fault of their own, young people leaving care are one of the most disadvantaged groups in society - that is why this project is so important. It will bring together employees and care experienced young people in a shared working environment where they will be supported to transform culture and practice to better meet the needs of the children and young people we care for.

“The project is an exceptional staff development opportunity designed to improve outcomes for our young people leaving care, support collaborative working and introduce participants to a range of creative and innovative practices."

If you are interested in the project, which is externally funded and fully supported by the Corporate Management Team, please:

• Read the project information and consider the commitment expected – successful applicants will need to combine project work within their current workload
• Discuss with your manager the commitment required. Please note, if you wish to apply after the information session you will need the support of your Line Manager
• Book space on - and attend - an information session

For further information prior to the information sessions please contact: evelyn.kennedy@falkirk.gov.uk