Parents from across Clackmannanshire took part in a special celebration event recently to mark the completion of a life-changing programme to set them on course for a brighter future. A total of nine women took part in THRIVE to Keep Well, a 16 week course  designed to build confidence, increase employment or volunteering opportunities and become more skilled  at supporting their children’s learning and development.

THRIVE is a partnership between NHS Forth Valley, Clackmannanshire Council’s Education Service, Adult Learning Team, Family Support Workers and Educators and third sector agencies.  The course was delivered at Alloa Family Centre and included workshops to increase confidence, knowledge and awareness of coping with day-to-day stresses as well as advice on how to create a healthier and more positive lifestyle.

During the celebration event, the women explained why they decided to take part in THRIVE. Lisa, one of the participants, explained: “My depression, anxiety and stress has not been easy to cope with so I was unsure what to expect when joining THRVE. The first day I felt nervous and anxious. I felt extremely isolated as I don’t really have many friends due to my mental health and my confidence and self esteem was so low thanks to my weight gain after giving birth. I have met some great people and hope to continue with friendships and have already started to change things in my life and work towards hitting the goals I have set myself. I would recommend anyone to attend THRIVE and am so glad I was given this amazing opportunity.”

Presenting certificates, Councillor Ellen Forson, Leader of Clackmannanshire Council, said: “It is humbling to hear how women are transforming their lives through engagement in the THRIVE project and I was delighted to congratulate them for successfully completing the programme.

“Ensuring that women and girls in Clackmannanshire will be confident, aspirational and achieve their full potential is a strategic priority in our Local Outcomes Improvement Plan. We are focussed on raising attainment for every child and THRIVE is a great example of what collaboration between services in our local communities can achieve.”

Her thoughts were echoed by NHS Forth Valley, Principal Public Health Officer, Joanne O Suilleabhain, who said:  “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 two THRIVE groups are set to be delivered later this year, one for men only. The coming years could also see a similar programme being developed for lone parents.

Photo caption – Cllr Ellen Forson, Leader of Clackmannanshire Council (far right) is pictured with the programme participants.

For more information contact Keep Well on 01786 434044.