Jura is one of three houses within Kibble’s Safe Centre and it is filled with adults who protect young people, making sure they are safe and happy. Jura’s staff team dedicated a day to team-building as part of their vision to continue learning, grow their service and help young people be the best versions of themselves.
The Development Day Agenda
The development day was held within one of St Mirren’s conference rooms allowing everyone to focus solely on the activities planned. It was an opportunity for the entire team to connect, reflect and implement new ideas. Insightful presentations were included too.
Kibble’s Specialist Interventions Services (SIS) team of psychologists and therapists joined to deliver a training session about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Jura’s management team led a discussion on house ethos with everyone sharing their pride on being part of a fun-loving and friendly team as kids respond to the genuine camaraderie.
“Laughter is the best medicine”
Jura’s new house motto
The personalised house slogan was a product of the team spending the day together as they agreed both adults and kids have great fun together with plenty of jokes and laughs.
Overall Jura truly represents Kibble’s value of belonging.
Posted: November 16, 2023
Investors in People (IIP) is a prestigious accreditation presented to outstanding organisations who empower their workforce and have formally recognised Kibble as an organisation who prioritise their staff team.
Kibble understands the employees who work across all services are our most valuable resource. Therefore, Kibble strives to invest in people, motivating each staff member to drive forward the shared mission of ‘transforming lives, families and communities’.
The IIP framework evaluates companies across three key areas: leading, supporting and improving. Through the evaluation, Kibble achieved ‘Gold’ status with the results illustrating that for several categories, we are operating at the higher Platinum level, a standard met by only 2% of the companies assessed.
Kibble’s results outlined in the IIP Framework
Kibble’s ambitious nature of helping young people thrive and opening much-needed new services is brought to life by our staff team who want to develop themselves. It is understood that to get the best from people, we must support their personal and professional goals as the organisation and wider care sector can benefit. Through continued learning and further training, our staff can identify the need for new ways of working and help Kibble continue to evolve. This has led to Kibble investing in career development opportunities for employees as well as implementing initiatives that promote a good work-life balance.
The IIP report credited our people for being the ‘backbone of Kibble’ and highlighted that our dedication to health and wellbeing and learning and development was shown through the following actions –
Our own trauma-informed model of care includes ‘Skilled and Supported Staff’ as a key component to our practice. By investing in qualified staff and further training and development, we had the expertise to open new essential services.
Kibble agreed in 2022, in line with previous years, to increase the rate of pay in line with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) recommendation, which resulted in an above average 5% pay increase.
Increased recruitment ensured young people received consistent love and care from familiar faces while colleagues were supported by a steady and competent workforce.
Strategic plans for succession meant new roles were introduced for experienced Child and Youth Care Workers to continue professional development.
Kibble has achieved sector-leading results from the Care Inspectorate and Education Scotland.
An evolving staff benefits package reflective of employee demands. Each employee has access to a free gym membership, physiotherapy, a health cashback scheme, and other benefits with the services continually enhancing in line with the competitive job market.
Research drives forward improvements across all operations from the opening of new services to upgraded ways of working using new technology.
Partnerships are valued and included within The Skills Academy’s student-led social business enterprises, bringing value to the services offered to the community. Additionally, our partnership with St Mirren Football Club is working to strengthen youth employment.
Jim Gillespie, Kibble Chief Executive, shared: “It is with great pride Kibble accepts the ‘Gold’ status for investing in people and investing in young people.
“We do understand that the difference Kibble makes to the lives of children, young people and families is only possible due to our driven and caring staff team and to be recognised for respecting and prioritising our workforce is an honour.
“We will continue to invest in the individuals who dedicate themselves to developing a rewarding career with us. Our aim has always been to ensure each employee has access to the support and resources needed to change the lives of young people who have faced adversity and give them the best chance at life.”
Karen Kerr, Kibble HR Manager, said: “Kibble stays true to its values of Respect, Ambition and Belonging by listening to employees and ensuring their needs are considered within overall business operations.
“The ‘Gold’ status from Investors in People confirms our commitment to our workforce and the fact there is an opportunity to build a long-term career with us. We will match your ambitions by supporting you complete valuable training and gain further qualifications.”
Overall, Kibble is ambitious with the aim of helping more young people through prioritising a skilled and supported workforce and are proud to have received Investors in People and Investors in Young People ‘Gold’ status.
Posted: October 31, 2023
So far, Halloween 2023 has been extremely busy for Kibble. Beware, great fun ahead. Read on to discover what we’ve been up to this spooky season from putting up decorations everywhere to creating sculptures for Paisley’s Halloween Festival and hosting our own Halloween Disco.
Look at Our Halloween House Décor
Each house has transformed into a spectacular Halloween haunt with young people showcasing their personality and imagination through ‘spook-tacular’ displays of spider webs, pumpkins and ceiling decorations.
Kibble’s official Spooky House Competition is set for Wednesday 1st November where the judges will be on the look out for
Scariest Design
Funniest Design
Most Creative Design
Artwork by Kibble Pupils Featured in Paisley’s Halloween Festival
Pupils at Goudie Academy and Forest View created magnificent sculptures for the Paisley Halloween Festival’s Trail Zone. Young people took part in creative workshops with visual artist, Tim Parfitt and used their skills and imagination to design artwork for the festival’s walk-through experience. The theme was decadent décor and pupils handmade the chilling, ghostly, clear-like figures.
Halloween Disco
This weekend’s Halloween Disco was great fun with young people and adults joining in and dressing up in costumes. The disco lights and DJ set got everyone on the dancefloor.
Kibble goes all out for Halloween with more and have plenty of treats still planned. Look out for more photos coming soon.
Posted: October 20, 2023
Kibble’s Career Start training programme gave Paul the chance to begin an entirely new career at 32.
Previously a fork lift driver, Paul had the ambition to find a job role that involved him helping others. He wanted a more fulfilling career and was prepared to develop existing skills to make it a reality. He had looked up to guidance teachers while at school himself and was motivated to learn how he could do something similar. An avid sports fan and team player, Paul knew he was outgoing, enthusiastic and active. He believed he could relate to young people and bring laugher and fun into their lives.
Paul shared, “When I found out about Kibble’s Career Start training programme, the opportunity was too good not to try.
“It has been 10 months into the year-long training course and I am so happy I made the decision to join.”
I’d 100% recommend Career Start to anyone keen to start a new career helping other people. Through Kibble you really can make a difference in the world.
“The academic side of the course and gaining a HNC in Social Care was daunting. However, one day a week is dedicated to spending time in the classroom with Kibble’s experienced trainers plus we have a study day to reflect on what has been taught.
“The trainee role is practice-based with a work placement so I’d say the theory-side is enlightening. It is good to understand the reasoning behind why we do what we do.
“The best thing about working at Kibble is seeing the difference in a young person between meeting them for the first time and as they spend more time with us, seeing their confidence grow and their full personality come out.
“Three traits you need to become a trainee are transparency, honestly and communication. Be yourself and if you say you’re going to do something, follow-through as that’s the best way for young people to trust you. By building trust, young people are more likely to listen to you and take onboard your explanations, advice and friendship.”
Through the Scottish Book Trust, Forest View experienced the magic of a storybook session. A creator and storyteller inspired children to enjoy reading and writing.
Forest View in Lochwinnoch has two children’s residential houses and a therapeutic primary school for those aged 5-12-years-old who have experienced trauma and adversity. The adults at Forest View love and care for the children and support them to move forwards. At Forest View, happy childhood memories are made, and imagination is brought to life through adventure and play.
Children were captivated by the recent story-telling session. A range of interesting stories were told about the world around us. Together we moved through the chapters with props to bring the words to life.
The feeling of textiles can help us understand what certain adjectives describe and the thrill of using a parachute can illustrate a scene in our minds. For example, the movement of the parachute replicated the motion of crashing waves, helping us imagine the ocean.
The sessions were held inside and outdoors in the garden and made everyone realise the fun of storytelling.
Kibble invited Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to share with young people the importance of safe driving.
Young people listened intently to the qualified firefighters about road safety. The firefighters explained that as well as fires, they respond to road traffic collisions. It is their responsibility to rescue people and possibly carry out lifesaving first aid. Young people gained an insight and understanding of why driving safely is essential.
Young people discussed with firefighters what factors could impact driving from distractions to bad weather. Young people agreed on the recommended safety advice and understood the importance of following driving laws and guidance as the alternative consequences can be serious.
Kibble and Scottish Fire and Rescue worked alongside one another to provide valuable learning resources designed for young people. By collaborating and partnering with helpful organisations, we can enhance learning experiences for young people and include different perspectives to encourage interaction and insight.
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Jura, one of the houses within our Safe Centre, held a Sports Day. The healthy competition got everyone outside and active.
When it is dry weather outside with bright, blue skies it’s important to get outdoors as the fresh air can help our minds switch-off. The chance to clear our thoughts by spending time in natural light – whether exercising or relaxing is an essential part of any daily routine.
The adults within Jura always encourage young people to share how they would like to spend their time. The adults enthusiastically and wholeheartedly join in with the fun activities and games as spending time all together can create great laughs and happy memories. Young people decided to set-up a Sports Day and had great fun challenging one another and the adults around them.
“Kids had a brilliant time – taking part in a Kirby Championship, wheelbarrow race and handstand competition.”
Rhiannon, Service Manager
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Bryan joined Kibble 17 years ago to teach construction to young people who were interested in learning trade skills. Throughout his career at Kibble, he has held several job titles from Social Enterprise Coordinator to Construction Supervisor before reaching his goal of becoming a qualified, full-time teacher. Read on to discover Bryan’s journey of developing a rewarding career with Kibble.
We recruit for ambitious individuals and in return for the high level of commitment, promise job applicants the opportunity to establish at rewarding career at Kibble.
An example of an inspiring career story can be told by Bryan. Kibble matched the motivation of Bryan by supporting him in gaining further qualifications while working at Kibble. Qualification achieved spanned from an HNC and SVQ in Social Care to multiple Learning and Development Awards as well as the Teaching Qualification in Further Education (TQFE). The TQFE was completed through distance learning from Aberdeen University over 9 months part time, one evening per week plus study time.
Bryan shared, “Kibble has been incredibly supportive, with their backing and the help of some fantastic colleagues, I graduated in July 2022 and began teaching at Kibble full-time.
“The qualification has given me an increased confidence in my practice. It is incredibly rewarding to be part of young people’s journey and I hope to do so for many years to come.
“By completing Further Study, I am far better equipped to deliver quality education to the students of Kibble in a style that suits their individual needs.
“I aim to continue my learning and hoping to commence a Master’s in Education or Inclusive Education later this year.”
It is the drive and determination shown by people like Bryan that has contributed to the overall growth of Kibble and our ability to help more young people with the right support at the right time, helping to give them a chance at life.
‘Why work for Kibble?’ may be a question you ask, and the answer is – work with us as we are determined to provide you with personal and professional development opportunities for you to be the best you can be.
Meet Child and Youth Care Worker, Kerryanne who completed a Master’s degree in Child Protection, while working, funded by Kibble.
Kerryanne joined Kibble 15 years ago when she was only 22 with a mission to keep young people safe. Currently, she is based within our community services, supporting care-experienced young people thrive and move towards independent living, helping prepare them for handling the responsibilities that come with maintaining a home.
As soon as Kerryanne began at Kibble as a sessional Child and Youth Care Worker, acting as a helping hand during weekends and evenings, her enthusiasm to contribute to giving young people a chance at life was clear. She demonstrated kindness, compassion and dedication, which led her to gain a HNC in Social Services and pursue the further learning opportunities Kibble offered, expanding her knowledge on Social Pedagogy, child protection and child development.
By increasing overall knowledge, Kerryanne has developed a greater understanding, which she can discuss with colleagues and share deeper reasoning for the behaviours and needs of young people. Ultimately, Kibble focuses on building relationships with young people and by undertaking further study, we increase learning and comprehension, letting us relate and respond to young people in the right way, at the right time.
Kerryanne shared, “I am determined to do my best in every aspect in my life and I want to change kids lives – whether it is in my role at Kibble or being a scout leader in my own time.
“I am energetic and confident and with Kibble’s emotional and financial support, I have been able to soak up training opportunities. I have learned how to evolve and adapt to help young people in the most effective way possible.”
Kerryanne is a mum herself and has strived to created a work-life balance, managing working at Kibble and her love for young people in her care as well as studying and devoting quality time to her own family. She credits Kibble for being extremely supportive, investing in her professional development and offering flexible working. In return, she has focused on providing the highest standard of care and protection possible. Moving forward, Kerryanne plans to continue to support young people, bringing them a sense of safety, creating fun experiences for them. Overall, helping young people move forwards with their lives and find happiness.
Our hope is that Kerryanne’s career journey answers your question of ‘Why work for Kibble?’ If you have ambition and motivation to give young people a chance at life, join us and start building your own fulfilling career.
At Kibble, the highest accolade we could ever receive is a young person’s happiness and their family’s appreciation.
A parent of a young person who spent time at Forest View’s Ness house for Primary Years, shared their appreciation through a heartfelt letter.
“Thank you all so much for the amount of care and support given during this past year at Ness House. You provided the right environment for my son to learn how to work through big, overwhelming emotions. We as a family will be forever grateful for your dedication. There is no doubt he will miss you all and the support and friendships that were made.
“Kibble and Ness have been a huge part of our lives and now it is time for a fresh start, although we will never forget about Ness.”
The young person was surrounded by adults who loved, cared and encouraged them during a time when the family needed a helping hand. The family’s gratefulness is testament to the dedicated team members who go above and beyond to provide the best care possible and follow Kibble’s own therapeutic, trauma-informed practice to work alongside young people and their families.
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