CalMac tackling social issues with local pupils

CalMac is celebrating three years of sharing skills with school students through a scheme designed to benefit local charities and tackle social issues.

 

Through its involvement with the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI), CalMac has empowered 2,360 secondary school pupils as they bid for £3,000 for local causes.

 

The ferry company works in partnership with the Wood Foundation to deliver the scheme to 10 high schools based in communities served by CalMac.

 

With support from CalMac’s mentors, young people engaging in YPI gained valuable skills including improved communication, research skills and teamworking.

 

It has increased their confidence and developed an increased awareness of the needs of local communities.

 

"attachment_791704" "aligncenter" "300"] CalMac's Julie MacRae at the Mallaig High YPI final.

 

Through a unique programme of teamwork, research and competition, an entire year group takes part, with one team being selected by a panel of judges to secure an award for a local cause at a YPI final.

 

Last year, 10 schools took part and raised money for charities including the Uist and Barra foodbank, Action for Children, Western Isles Women’s Aid, and the Oban Hospice.

 

One teacher whose school took part in YPI said: 'In such a small school, it can be quite challenging for pupils to speak to other adults outwith our small community, so the mentoring has really helped to improve the pupils’ confidence.

 

'It also helps form strong group dynamics and encourages better teamwork when the pupils are given a time to go out and speak to their own mentors, as a team.'

 

"attachment_791710" "aligncenter" "300"] Campbeltown Grammar School's winning team with CalMac's Craig Ramsay.

 

Gordon McKillop, corporate social responsibility manager for CalMac, said: 'Young people are increasingly more aware of social issues and the effect on the lives of people in their communities.

 

'YPI is a wonderful example of partnership working and we are proud that CalMac colleagues support the young people involved progress through the programme and make a difference in their local area.'

 

Lucia Giuntoli, partnership manager for YPI, added: 'Our partnership with CalMac has allowed young people to advocate for social issues they are passionate about supporting in the local area. The support from CalMac as an engaged funding partner to our programme has been very important.'