College praised for commitment to supporting carers

South Lanarkshire College has been recognised for its commitment to support student carers.

They have been awarded the accolade of Going Further for Student Carers: Recognition Award from the Carers Trust.

South Lanarkshire College in East Kilbride is the second college in Scotland to have achieved this success.

The Recognition Award, launched by the Carers Trust in March 2019, encourages colleges to implement an institution-wide approach to supporting student carers.

South Lanarkshire College and its Students’ Association have worked in close partnership with the Carers Trust, in support of this national campaign to raise awareness of student carers and their particular needs and concerns.

College principle and CEO, Aileen McKechnie (pictured), said:“This award recognises the significant effort and energy which is invested right across our College to support our student carers to achieve their full potential.

“South Lanarkshire College is proud to put our students first. We want to create the best possible learning environment and we want to help all our learners achieve their ambitions.

“We provide them with the very best learning experience in an atmosphere of respect, support and wellbeing. We want all our learners to succeed in their studies, and we want to see them all progress in their chosen career.

“This award recognises that we have in place a whole college approach to identifying, supporting and encouraging our student carers.”

Ms McKechnie added:“It is important recognition of the efforts we make to support this important part of our college community, as well as of the care and kindness we demonstrate right across the college.

“I very much look forward to continuing our work with the Carers Trust and our Student Association to develop and improve the support we offer to our student carers, helping them to succeed and ensuring that their voice is heard.”