A JOHNSTONE woman has helped to launch a new scheme that aims to find jobs for young people in care.

Children’s charity Kibble has joined forces with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), based in Inchinnan, to give vulnerable teenagers the chance to work in the fields of science and technology.

The new partnership kicked off with a special virtual school assembly for Kibble pupils.

One of the guest speakers was 24-year-old Jayne Clark, from Johnstone, who works as a technician at the University of Strathclyde’s Advanced Forming Research Centre (ARFC), also based in Inchinnan.

She spoke to youngsters about a career in manufacturing and took them on a virtual tour of her workplace.

Jayne said: “After attending an open day at the AFRC, I came away feeling really inspired about the opportunities available to me – ones that I wasn’t aware of or hadn’t yet considered.

“I applied for an apprenticeship and I have learnt an incredible amount over the past seven years.

“I am thrilled to be part of the partnership with Kibble, showcasing the various opportunities at the centre to the young people, and hope that I can inspire someone else to kickstart a career in manufacturing.”

“It is incredibly important that we not only look to highlight the careers available but also support young people along the pathway to get there.

“I was also impressed with the interest shown by the young people at the assembly.”

A new skills academy for young people is currently being built at NMIS.

It will link with Paisley-based Kibble’s own skills academy to jointly create job opportunities for pupils at the former List-D school.

The charity, which has been in existence for 160 years, still provides residential and secure care for ‘at risk’ young people aged from five to 26.

Jim Gillespie, Kibble chief executive, said: “Creating real-life tangible opportunities for our young people is an important part of our role as we prepare them for their future.

“We are excited about the prospects this new partnership with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland brings.”

Jim Hannigan, head of skills capability at NMIS, added: “Our aim is to transform the manufacturing workforce of today and tomorrow, creating opportunities for people to have flourishing careers.

“It is incredibly important that we support local young people and provide them with the chance to experience a career in manufacturing.”

Many of the young people cared for by Kibble have experienced significant trauma in the past.

The charity continues to provide support, including housing, after the teenagers have left school.

NMIS is operated by the University of Strathclyde and supported by the Scottish Government.