Parents from across Stirling took part in a special celebration event recently to mark their completion of a positive parenting programme.

A total of 31 parents took part in the Thrive programme, a partnership between Stirling Council’s Adult Learning Team, Early Years family workers and the NHS Forth Valley Keep Well Team.

Thrive supports parents to develop a range of skills and confidence and is delivered through a 16-week focus on change for a healthier lifestyle.

Workshops aim to increase confidence, knowledge and awareness of coping with day to day stresses as participants explore how to create their own pathways to further education, volunteering or employment.

The programme, which was delivered to parents at nurseries across Stirling, also supports participants to become more confident in supporting their children’s learning and development.

Stirling Council Education Convener, Councillor Alistair Berrill, said: “Raising attainment is a key priority for use and I’d like to congratulate everyone who successfully completed this latest Thrive programme.

“Not only will what they have learned help their own progression but it should also help improve their children’s experience of learning and set them on course for a brighter future too.”

Service Manager Bill Miller presented participants with their certificates at the celebration held in Stirling’s Cowane Centre and said: “It is humbling to hear how women are transforming their lives across Stirling’s communities through engagement in the Thrive project.

“This is one of the best examples of what collaboration between services in local communities can achieve.”

Principal Public Health Officer for NHS Forth Valley, Joanne O Suilleabhain added: “This is a fantastic example of partnership working being able to tackle the root causes of health inequality, and to support women in particular to move into learning and employment opportunities.”

A further eight Thrive groups are scheduled to be delivered next year, including two new groups.

For more information please contact the Adult Learning Team on 01786 237517/adultlearning@stirling.gov.uk or contact the Keep Well Team on 01786 434044.

ENDS

 For further information, please contact: Siân Lower, Communications Officer, 01786 233033 lowers@stirling.gov.uk.