A father from Lochwinnoch is urging others to consider a career in care after he made the switch.

Ryan McCay, 37, swapped gardening for youth care with children’s charity Kibble through its career start programme which was launched to help people complete a career change and gain formal qualifications while earning.

Ryan, a dad of two, worked as a landscaper for eight years before taking the leap to become a trainee youth and care worker.

The programme by Kibble offers on-the-job training and a living wage while working towards an HNC in Social Services.

He said: “It’s been great getting to know the young people at Kibble, finding out their likes and dislikes and creating friendships with them to build positive memories for those in our care.

"I prefer backshift and spending time with them after-school when I encourage them to find a fun activity to try – some pick shopping, go-karting or playing goals outside.

“The training has been helpful too, teaching us about individual thinking and the reasoning behind certain behaviours.

"The work placement means the training isn’t hypothetical and instead, we’re living what the academic side is trying to tell us.

“Since joining Career Start, I believe I am a better person and better parent.”

Career Start prioritises life experiences, enthusiasm, and compassionate attitudes over formal qualifications, making it suitable for adults as well as young professionals wanting a career shift.

With two young children, he sought a career to fit his family lifestyle that also held potential for the long term.

Despite enjoying landscaping, the outdoor work was labour-intensive and involved working outdoors in harsh winters.

Although it was an overwhelming thought to change his career at the age of 37, the training, mentorship, and one-to-one support provided by Kibble’s Career Start in Child and Youth Care supports this change.

On completing the 12-month programme and HNC qualification, all candidates are guaranteed an interview for full-time work at Kibble.

Jim Gillespie, chief executive officer of Kibble, said: “Our Career Start training programme helps people who are looking for a career change enter into the child care sector with financial, training and educational support provided by Kibble along the way.

“It’s a rewarding career path and a privilege to provide support and guidance in a young person’s life to motivate them to look positively towards the future."

For more information on the programme or to apply for the next cohort, go to https://tinyurl.com/2htdfzwh.

Applications close on June 3.