Supporting social care students

Published in News on 26 Mar 2019

The 'What Matters to Us' conference was held at Ayrshire College on Wednesday, 20 March. 

Iriss was delighted to be a partner in the event alongside the Scottish Social Services Council, the College Development Network, Early Years Scotland, the ALLIANCE, University of West of Scotland and college sector representatives. 

The event provided an opportunity for final year HN social care and early years students to hear from inspiring guest speakers, including Fiona McQueen, Chief Nursing Officer for Scotland; and Chris Kilkenny, campaigner activist and trainer, who both prompted reflection on the topics of leadership and partnership, with a focus on person-centred support. 

Conference Chair, Kerry Musselbrook from Iriss said,

'It was a pleasure to be able to support students and inspire them at this key transitional point – celebrating them and their professions which make a massive difference to people’s lives. In planning the programme, partners wanted to encourage them to use this power, and show everyday leadership to be the very best they can be - listening to what really matters to people. It’s about professionals and non-professionals working together to achieve real positive change.'

Christine Hutchison, Head of Learning and Skills (Health and Social Care) at Ayrshire College commented,

'The care team from Ayrshire College were really proud to be asked to host this national conference. Students from social care and early years made the journey from across Scotland to attend. The stories from the guest speakers were inspiring, focusing on how their chosen paths makes them leaders both now and in the future in caring for our most vulnerable in society.'

The conference closed with a celebratory performance by Centrestage's Catalyst Voices choir.