Students who are care experienced or estranged from family can receive bespoke support with their studies and future careers thanks to a new programme by the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

UWS has launched a ‘Careers Connection’ scheme designed to help students who have experience of being in care, are from a looked-after background, or may not have the support or approval of a family network, in ensuring they are able to get the most out of their time at university and that they’re supported into the world of work. 

Through the programme, care-experienced and estranged students can receive one-to-one careers advice from a dedicated careers adviser, accessing information and resources tailored to students’ unique needs and experiences. They can also access bespoke support for taking part in the UWS ‘Employer Mentor Programme’, connecting students with industry professionals to support their career development, while alumni can access the careers service for up to 5-years after graduation.

The scheme, announced following Care Experienced Week in Scotland (21 October – 1 November) aims to recognise the unique experiences, skills and potential of those with care experience, and overcome any potential challenges and hurdles they face.    

Anthony Nsimbi, a care-experienced student studying aircraft engineering at UWS, has received support from the UWS WeCare Team, and is now one of the first students benefitting from the Careers Connection programme. He said: “The WeCare Team got in touch when I started at UWS to offer support, and I received a pack with essentials for moving into my accommodation. It really helped me feel a sense of belonging when I first got here and didn’t know anyone yet. Advisors check in regularly to find out if things are going okay or if you need extra assistance to stay on top of your studies, depending on your needs. 

“One of the aspects I’m most grateful for is working with the Careers Connection service to share my specific experience and skills as a strength to employers, rather than seeing it as a barrier to employability.”

One of the aspects I’m most grateful for is working with the Careers Connection service to share my specific experience and skills as a strength to employers, rather than seeing it as a barrier to employability.

Anthony Nsimbi, a care-experienced student studying aircraft engineering at UWS.

Commenting on the significance of the new scheme, Chief Executive Officer of Scottish care charity, Who Cares? Scotland, Louise Hunter, said: "Who Cares? Scotland are delighted to see the launch of the UWS Career Connections programme, which provides vital career support to care-experienced students throughout their studies. 

“It’s not always easy for students to know what the next step is, and every student deserves to access support and opportunities that help them thrive. Programmes like this ensure that care-experienced students get the career support they need, when they need it, to help them prepare for their future. 

“As we mark Care Experienced week in 2025, with this year's theme being 'rights', the UWS Career Connections programme is a great example of how practical, structured support can empower care-experienced students and help them to exercise their right to access careers guidance and development.".

The UWS Career Connections programme is a great example of how practical, structured support can empower care-experienced students and help them to exercise their right to access careers guidance and development.

Louise Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Scottish care charity, Who Cares? Scotland.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “We know that every student who arrives at UWS has their own unique story and experiences. And we believe that every student should have the opportunity to thrive in education, regardless of their background. 

“That’s why we’re delighted to announce our Careers Connection programme for students who are care experienced or estranged, to ensure they have the tools needed to succeed not only in their studies, but also as they embark on their future careers. With this initiative, we are empowering care experienced students to harness the many skills they already have through each of their journeys, recognising that as a real strength.” 

With this initiative, we are empowering care experienced students to harness the many skills they already have through each of their journeys, recognising that as a real strength.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS

The new initiative reflects University of the West of Scotland’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: quality education and Goal 10: reduced inequalities.