On Sunday 7th December a group of big-hearted little runners and adults at Kibble joined the mighty Glasgow Santa Dash.
An annual fundraising event to raise vital funds for Beatson Cancer Charity, the event attracts hundreds of participants of all generations, and all canine varieties, to join the fun!
The streets of Glasgow were a sea of red and white, as enthusiastic runners took off from Glasgow Green, running along the Clydeside and surrounding streets before returning to the park to cross the finish line. As well as hundreds of Santa’s, people joined in all sorts of costumes from turkeys to grinches… and even a heard of two-legged reindeer!
The atmosphere was truly electric, and all of the runners from Kibble really got into the festive spirit alongside the crowds of participants taking part.
Not only were we so proud of the children for completing the 5K challenge, but they only went and smashed their fundraising target! So far, their generosity has helped raise a phenomenal £450 to support those who have been affected by cancer.
Throughout the challenge, every time the children became tired and slowed down, they reminded themselves of those who were unwell and needed their help. This motivated them to keep going and push event further.
Making a Difference
As Nelson’s Monument came into view and the team crossed the finish line, there was much celebration on what had been achieved. To refuel after all that exertion, they made their way to the Christmas market and ordered delicious hot dogs all round.
Before making their way home one of the children wanted to go into a shop where he bought a man living on the street a nice warm lunch out of the goodness of his heart. He couldn’t bear to think of him being hungry. This goodwill gesture would have meant so much, and highlights what truly matters at this time of year – making a difference to others.
“It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”
Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
A huge well done to everyone who took part in the race, and for raising such an incredible amount for people and families affected by cancer.
The world is a little brighter with people like you.
Posted: December 10, 2025
On Friday 5th December, Goudie Academy held their annual charity Christmas Fayre, raising aphenomenal £1288 for local charity, Darkwood Crew.
After months of hard work by students and staff, the stalls were bustling with an array of beautiful festive gifts, sweet treats, knitwear, Christmas decorations, holly wreaths and much more.
For those feeling lucky, there was a tombola and many a guest walked away gleefully with a jigsaw puzzle or sweetie tin under their arms. The busiest stall, as you may imagine, was the home-baking with cakes made by our legendary baker and HE teacher, Carol Keegan, with the help of pupils. It was a feast for both the eyes and the stomach, with scones, brownies, Danish pastries, lemon drizzle, iced ginger bread and much more.
Pupils proudly attended to the stalls, greeting guests and conveying the story behind how each item was lovingly crafted. There was a real buzz in the room and praise was running high for what pupils had collectively achieved.
But the part young people are most proud of, is that all of the money raised is supporting Darkwood Crew, who provide a number of local initiatives aimed at ‘helping Ferguslie flourish’. Among the many community projects they operate, the Darkwood Crew run a food bank supporting families struggling to put food on the table.
A huge well done to Goudie Academy on another phenomenal Christmas Fayre! The efforts will bring a little cheer to many local families who need a helping hand this Christmas.
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On Friday 21st November, there was a sprinkling of festive magic in the air at Forest View Primary as pupils and staff held their annual Christmas Fayre.
The very first event on Kibble’s bustling Christmas calendar, it certainly was a day to remember thanks to our busy little elves who worked hard to bring us all some festive cheer.
Children proudly welcomed guests, including parents / carers and staff, to showcase their handmade Christmas decorations, beautifully packaged aromatic winter scents, Christmas cards, pet accessories and more.
Perhaps the most sought-after gift, however, was the home-made honey produced specially by the busy honey bees on Forest View’s grounds with the help of the children. The honey jars and associated products, including wax melts and candles, were beautifully branded with a special logo designed by the children as part of their school project.
And, just like the product name suggested, everyone thought the honey products were ‘The Bees Knees’, buying multiple jars to gift friends and families.
Guests were also treated to delicious home baking and a warm cuppa! Special thanks to Cammie for from the catering team for making such a mouth-watering array of cakes from bounty bars and macaroons to empire biscuits and caramel shortcake.
A huge well done to children and staff at Forest View for putting on a really wonderful Christmas Fayre! All monies raised has been donated to Cash for Kids, a charity that does incredible work to support children and young people affected by poverty, illness, neglect or who have additional needs.
With this level of creativity, entrepreneurialism and cheer, we reckon Santa may be recruiting the children at Forest View to join his team of helpers at the North Pole this Christmas!
Posted: December 4, 2025
Our annual conference returned to Glasgow with record attendance and a special opening from a young person, making this year’s event our most impactful yet.
Welcome to Kibble’s Annual Conference
Kibble’s Annual Conference 2025 in partnership with Safehinge Primera invited those who share the aim of giving young people a chance at life, bringing together residential care, youth justice and education. All were encouraged to work alongside one another in a trauma-informed way and put young people at the centre of decision-making.
Opening the day was Kibble Executive Director Dan Johnson and young person Rachel who shared personal insight into how everyone’s role can shape young lives. She called for every child to be treated as an individual, emphasising how important it is to be listened to when navigating experiences, emotions and challenges that can feel overwhelming at times.
“You just kind of think that you’re a bad kid because everybody assumes you’re bad.” Young person
The authenticity resonated with attendees reminding everyone how powerful their role is in shaping the lives of young people.
“Hearing from Rachel at the start of the day was very grounding.” Attendee
The young person’s welcome set a positive and motivating tone for the entire day ahead.
Meet Our Speakers
Children and Young Person’s Commissioner Scotland (CYPCS) Nicola Killean chaired the event and introduced the Minister of Children and Young People and The Promise, Natalie Don-Innes as well as a host of powerful speakers and interactive workshops.
Minister of Children and Young People and The Promise, Natalie Don-Innes reinforced that collective action remains a priority, highlighting the Scottish Government’s ongoing commitment, recognising by working together, real progress can be achieved.
“Together, we are building a system that puts children first, delivers on The Promise and ensures every child in Scotland has the chance to thrive.”
“The Kibble conference is a valuable opportunity to bring professionals together to share ideas, strengthen practice and inspire innovation in care. By listening to children, working in strong partnership, and delivering nurturing care, we can help to ensure every child grows up loved, safe and respected.” Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, Natalie Don-Innes
Supporting every child is no small feat and requires everyone to work towards the collective goal.
Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, Natalie Don-Innes
Expertly introduced by chairperson, CYPCS Nicola Killean, each keynote delivered messages that connected with attendees. The line-up included: care-experienced Rap Artist Ric Diaghe; Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Helen Minnis; Assistant Director for NSPCC Scotland Kirsty Aitken; and Foxgrove Service Manager Victoria McInulty. Every speaker brought compelling insights and a unique perspective.
Children and Young Person’s Commissioner Scotland, Nicola Killean
Ric Flo brought reflections to life through performance. He shared how his own experience of growing up in care inspired him to create music and encourage others to express themselves too. From performing at Glastonbury to delivering creative workshops across the UK using art to connect with young people.
He led the audience in a warm, heartfelt rendition of one of his songs, inviting everyone to join in singing the lyrics; “You need to be what you want to be, do what you want to do.”
Every person in the audience was moved by Ric explaining the impact positive relationships have on planting the seeds that can change the trajectory of young people’s lives.
“My foster carers hugged me from day one, they showed me love. Asked me “how was your day at school”, and checked in with me every day to ask how I was feeling. Without them I wouldn’t know how to show love”. Ric Flo
Rap Artist, Ric Flo
Professor Helen Minnis, University of Glasgow highlighted how to support care experienced young people through trauma and neurodivergence, helping them to thrive.
“Children who are sensitive to bad things, are also sensitive to good things.”
Helen’s message of optimism resounded throughout the entire room.
Professor Helen Minnis
Assistant Director for NSPCC Scotland, Kirsty Aitken demonstrated captivating story-telling, recounting her personal reasons for striving towards a trauma-sensitive approach when supporting young people.
Assistant Director for NSPCC Scotland, Kirsty Aitken
Service Managers Victoria McInulty and Helen Smith introduced Foxgrove, Scotland’s National Secure Adolescent Inpatient Service, explained that from the very beginning, the space has been shaped with a trauma-informed ethos at the centre. Trust, compassion, openness, acceptance and consistency form the foundation for Foxgrove being a trauma-informed space and place.
Service Managers, Victoria McInulty and Helen Smith
Introducing a Variety of Workshops
With a full schedule of sessions across the day, every attendee found valuable learning relevant to their role. Education, youth justice, residential care, trauma and mental health were some of the key themes covered in our packed programme.
Kibble led a workshop on Animal-assisted Play Therapy. Attendees heard directly about how the calming presence of animals has helped children and young people build confidence, regulate emotions, and engage in therapeutic relationships in ways that often weren’t possible before. Joined by a young person, attendees gained an authentic lived experience perspective.
“Workshops were excellent and allowed valued insight into young peoples lived experiences.” Attendee
Headline sponsor, Safehinge Primera announced their purpose is to design for good. They gave an intricate and in-depth look at how they innovatively create safer environments with doors and the wider settings, prioritising robustness while supporting therapeutic design.
Safehinge Digital Solutions Director, Elgar Finlay
Children and Young People’s Centre for Justice (CYCJ) presented the findings from the 2025 Secure Care Census, which had a 100% response thanks to young people and each of the secure providers in Scotland.
Renfrew High School sparked discussion on the power of effective de-escalation when working with dysregulated behaviour. Listeners were championed to “focus on good things and manage behaviour without shame” while remembering there can be “invisible backpacks” that cause unseen pressure. Enthusiastic discussion was had as everyone wanted to join in and find ways to help validate the feelings of young people, making sure they feel safe.
“Really interesting workshops, I wish I could’ve attended them all.” Attendee
Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health at Glasgow Caledonian University motivated the audience to use co-production as a vehicle for change in services, encouraging everyone to find fresh ways to let young people’s voices guide the way. Reminding us all: “co-production does not need to be formal, it can just be conversation”.
Who Cares? Scotland support care experienced people to have their voice heard and, in their workshop, motivated everyone in the room to always lead by example in showing young people they matter. Who Cares? Scotland emphasised that “independent advocacy is transformational”, reinforcing “young people’s rights are not optional”.
Our Hearings, Our Voice inspired lively audience participation and attendees shared ideas and solutions to the topics discussed with energy and enthusiasm. A standout point was supporting young people reach their future milestone of having the practical skills needed for independent living.
“Very inspiring workshops. Young people were part of the sessions I attended. It was empowering to have them be part of it and speak so well.” Attendee
It was a privilege to bring educators, practitioners, therapists, psychologists and many others who make a difference in the lives of young people together for collaboration and action.
Jim Gillespie, Chief Executive Officer of Kibble explains our unique position to host a large conference and bring together all who influence the lives of young people wanting us all to collectively follow a trauma-informed approach.
“We are committed to ensuring we can achieve positive outcomes for some of the most vulnerable children and we understand the true impact that collaboration can have on the services and support that we collectively offer young people.”
“Kibble’s Annual Conference reinforces our commitment to young people by ensuring collaboration and sharing best practice, is front of mind so we can collectively help those children and young people who need it most.”
Overall, the experience was designed to leave you inspired, motivated and carrying with you a new insight or perspective.
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My name is Nisha Munogee and I’m a Social Worker for the Interventions for Vulnerable Youth project, better known as IVY.
I started in May 2023 after 7 years of working with adults in the criminal justice system, mainly within a mental health service for women. This involved a trauma-informed approach which has been invaluable in moving to IVY, where we work with complex young people who display high-risk behaviours. Many have experienced significant trauma.
The social work role in IVY provides unique and varied opportunities to work in a psychologically informed way. IVY is consultation based, and my job involves co-facilitating these meetings alongside an IVY Psychologist. We offer a space for the young person’s support teams to discuss the risks and needs involved in cases and to think about how to shape support plans going forward. We write an initial set of considerations arising from the consultation, as well as a fuller report which includes a risk assessment and a formulation to aid in a psychological understanding of the young person’s needs.
Often consultation will be enough for the team around the young person to think about how to go forward. It can be a valuable reflective space to aid multi-disciplinary working as well as give new perspectives on risks and needs. I know from experience of being a social worker in community teams that the role within councils is highly pressured and does not often allow for workers to have this kind of space to think therapeutically about things are going.
As an IVY Social Worker, consultations are always interesting and provide an opportunity to learn from the practice of Social Workers all over Scotland as well as being able to offer learning from my own experiences. We can also become involved on a longer-term basis if there is a need for specific work to be undertaken with the young person. This gives the role a balance of consultations, report writing, development, and direct contact with young people. Interventions can take the form of structured work around emotional regulation, trauma, developing coping strategies, and supporting young people who struggle with sexualised behaviour. We do this work with the system around the child in mind, which is essential for it to be meaningful.
There are challenges and barriers as in any organisation, but the flexible and creative set up of the service allows us to work in a holistic way with high-risk young people, centred around their needs, vulnerabilities, and strengths.
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Horticulture and gardening students planted pumpkin seeds, growing their own to carve for Halloween.
The Skills Academy started planning for Halloween months ago using their horticulture and gardening skills to grow giant pumpkins. Seeds were planted in the community garden, which young people care for with the help of our Sustainability and Green Skills Instructor. The youngsters watched the pumpkins take shape until it was time to pick and decorate a traditional jack-o’-lantern in time for Friday 31st October.
Young people had fun getting creative, adding frightful features and ghoulish grins to their homegrown pumpkins. The result was an eye-catching display of original masterpieces.
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Young people and adults took part in the parade at the Paisley Halloween Festival 2025.
Circled in the diary, the Paisley Halloween Festival is a major event with parades, live entertainment and professional acts. The annual parade is a highlight with Kibble delivering a show-stopping performance each year. Some might say that 2025 was the best experience yet.
Within the Expressive Arts Department at Kibble’s Goudie Academy, pupils were laser-focused on preparing their centrepiece, own costumes and handmade props for the festival. It was decided Kibble’s act would include booming drummers too. Our talented young musicians created a spooky soundtrack to wow the crowd as part of the Sounds Right music project. Sounds Right: Community Beat is Kibble’s after school music making workshops and activities that have been made possible thanks to funding from the Scottish Government’s Youth Music Initiative: Access to Music Making, managed by Creative Scotland.
Parade preparations involved spray-painting scary dollies and building a super-sized scary main character.
Before long, it was time for young people and adults to convene in the Art and Design classroom ahead of the event to raise spirits and bring the energy to the marvellous celebrations.
Posted: August 26, 2025
We’re pleased to share that Buchanan Two, a new Children’s House on our Paisley Campus opened at the end of June, 2025.
This follows the completion of an extension and renovation of an existing house, which has now created two separate 2-bedroom houses which sit under our Kibble Intensive Services registration.
Since opening its doors, we’ve welcomed two young people who are enjoying making the house their home. In line with our other children’s houses, Buchanan Two has been shaped around our therapeutic, trauma-informed model. You’ll see this reflected everywhere from the nature-inspired interiors to the spaces, garden, staff teams and child-centred ethos.
Buchanan Two provides a warm, welcoming home for children and young people whose needs are best met within a highly supportive environment.
Homes Built to Care
What you’ll notice as soon as you walk through the door of the property is the natural light that floods in from the windows and patio doors. This, coupled with the high ceiling in the living room creates a bright, warm and homely space for young people.
In a similar style to many modern homes, the centre of the home is a family living area that combines a comfortable lounge, kitchen and dining area to enjoy mealtimes together.
There are two stylish bedrooms with en-suite shower facilities, ready for young people to put their personal stamp on. You’ll also find a small, snug or chill room for young people to enjoy watching TV, playing their computer, or perhaps perfect the latest TikTok dance! The house leads out onto a new, landscaped garden which is shared across both houses.
It Takes a Village
We’d like to say a huge thanks to the teams working hard to bring the house to life from the architects, builders, estates team and designers who understood the vision and made it happen.
Another great addition to Kibble’s extensive service provision, and above all, a beautiful place to call home for children and young people.
Take a Tour of Buchanan Two
Photo Gallery
Posted: July 4, 2025
Adam began his career at Kibble as a Graduate Apprentice working alongside the ICT team while studying Software Development at the University of the West of Scotland.
Working at Kibble is an opportunity to build a long-term, rewarding career. Vacancies vary from frontline care staff to jobs within corporate services, which support overall business operations. Departments include finance, HR, ICT and more. The charity values ambition and recruits driven employees who aspire to reach their full potential too. The staff team strives to do their best whether they work directly with young people or not and in return, Kibble invests heavily in career development for all.
As an ICT Graduate Apprentice, Adam is part of Kibble’s established ICT department while working towards a university degree in Software Development at the University of the West of Scotland. Adam is appreciative of his ICT colleagues who can provide him with advice and guidance from their lived experience. The insight into their daily responsibilities and practical knowledge boosts Adam’s understanding of the coursework. Adam is determined to complete the academic qualification and join the team permanently as a full-time ICT Systems Analyst.
It has been a positive experience for Adam to learn while completing on-the-job training as he values time with his colleagues: “I work within Kibble’s ICT department while studying Software Development at the University of the West of Scotland. I shadow my co-workers who take the time to explain each step involved in resolving the issues we’re working on.”
“Being taught on the job lets me ask any questions freely. I feel so much more confident and knowledgeable when I go to study because I have seen what we’re talking about applied in the real workplace.”
Adam is leading by example, demonstrating the rewarding career you can have at Kibble when you show great enthusiasm for learning and teamwork.
Watch Our Video
Hear from ICT Graduate Apprentice Adam as he explains the advantages to beginning a career at Kibble and working while studying.
Join Adam
There are plenty of reasons to work at Kibble and begin a career with longevity. Find a new job to suit you.
Kibble’s Skills Academy has given a young person the chance to gain the qualifications and work experience required to become a mechanic and turn their hobby into a potential career.
As a young boy, one Skills Academy student had an avid interest in cars, motorbikes and speedboats. There was always the hope of one day owning a powerful car, and growing up, as the years pass by and cars evolve, the ideal make and model may continue to change but the passion has remained stronger than ever.
The young person had a vision of becoming a car and motorbike mechanic, and The Skills Academy has brought his ambition to life. With an education and training centre based in Hillington as well as bases at St Mirren Football Club’s stadium and separate Training Complex, there are numerous subject choices, work placements and opportunities. It was the academy’s fully operational car garage that the aspiring mechanic set his sights on. The workshop maintains Kibble’s large fleet of vehicles and is the perfect learning environment for the young person.
The Mechanic Youth Trainer, Ross oversees servicing and maintenance and leads by example to all young people. Extremely knowledgeable in mechanics and always willing to help others, Ross is often found in the car garage at Hillington completing checks on Kibble vehicles across each location. He is a friendly face to everyone and prides himself on delivering exceptional service, ensuring the highest standards are met. Ross’ commitment is clear to see and he is a positive influence to students, showing them, you can have a rewarding career in a job you thoroughly enjoy.
Instructor Ross mentors aspiring mechanics.
The young person shared his experience of working towards SVQ and City and Guilds qualifications in mechanics: “I learn something new every day working at the academy’s garage with Instructor, Ross. It is absolutely amazing to get involved with the maintenance of the cars and have support from a professional mechanic like Ross. I would 100% work for Ross as a mechanic.”
“At the academy, I help repair cars and vans by fixing issues or completing a service. For as long as I can remember I have been interested in how cars and motorbikes work, and at the academy I am understanding more and more.”
“The next step is to go to college, possibly an apprenticeship then Formula 1!”
Instructor Ross motivates young people to set career goals.
Instructor Ross truly believes mentoring young people is the best part of his entire career. He continues to be impressed by the enthusiasm of those who want to enter the industry: “This young person is a natural mechanic – keen to ask questions, picks up practical skills quickly and has a sound understanding of the different parts and tools.”
“I have taught many talented young people, some of whom are now very successful qualified mechanics. This young person in particular is one of the most dedicated students I have ever taught. The young person, even if they can’t fix an issue (yet) is showing great promise in being able to problem-solve and identify where the area of concern is originating from. It has been a privilege to see their aptitude, skillset and knowledge increase since achieving their qualifications.”
Now, on the wishlist is a Transporter Golf R and a Volkswagen. However, the young person says he is already living his dream by working on vehicles every day.
Join Ross
Find out more about the career opportunities at Kibble that would suit you! This is your chance to join us in motivating young people.
