Engage Update - 24 November

Renfrewshire CYP cross-sector forum meeting 

17 December 2025 at 10am 

This meeting is open to all third sector groups working with families and children in Renfrewshire. As this network has not met for some time, and conscious of new groups as well as staff and role changes etc, we ask that all attendees sign up via Eventbrite so we can update records. Please feel free to pass this email to the most appropriate member of staff in your organisation.

The main discussion point for the meeting will be a presentation from Annie Torrance, Senior Policy Officer (People) at Renfrewshire Council's Chief Executive Service who is conducting Renfrewshire's Children Services Partnership's Joint Strategic Needs Assessment. Annie would like to hear from as many third sector service providers as possible to understand current need and levels of service across the area. 

Register for your place here 
 

Renfrewshire HSCP Chief Officer's Weekly Vlog

In this week’s Vlog, I talk about:
 

• NHSGGC Hackathon 3.
• My reflections from the recent IFIC Conference.
• My regular thanks to staff for their great work. This week I mention some positive feedback relating to a variety of recent inspections.

 
If you have any feedback on this video or ideas for future topics, I’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch or email: HSCPcommunications@renfrewshire.gov.uk
 
I hope you enjoy this week’s update…



Billy McClean
Chief Officer, Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership

Young People and Vaping

Staff and volunteers in Renfrewshire who work with young people are invited to join this online awareness session on Young People and Vaping. The session will provide up-to-date, evidence-based information on the harms associated with vaping, the environmental impacts, and current trends and usage among young people. Participants will gain knowledge and practical guidance to help young people make informed choices that support their health and wellbeing.
 
To register, please sign up via our Eventbrite page.

Renfrewshire’s Digital Inclusion Journey

Join us for an inspiring session that explores Renfrewshire’s Digital Inclusion Journey—a story of collaboration, innovation, and community empowerment. Digital inclusion is more than technology; it’s about equity, opportunity, and human rights. It ensures that everyone—regardless of age, income, or background—can participate fully in society.

This webinar will showcase how Renfrewshire Council and its partners are tackling digital exclusion head-on, creating a connected, confident, and resilient community. From DigiZones and Digital Champions to community-led device recycling and online safety initiatives, you’ll discover practical solutions and bold strategies that are making a real difference.
 
When: 28 November 2025 10:00 - 11:00
Where: Microsoft Teams
Sign up here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/402aa17b-216c-4bab-8375-8c695c5a7a5d@ca295336-1aa6-4486-b2b2-cf7669625305
 
What You’ll Learn

• Why digital inclusion matters: The human impact behind the stats.
• Renfrewshire’s strategic approach: Aligning local and national priorities.
• Key achievements: From DigiRen Network to DigiKnowVember.
• Community-driven innovation: How partnerships and lived experience shape solutions.
• Future vision: Building a safer, more digitally capable Renfrewshire.

  
Why Attend?

• Be inspired by real-world examples of digital inclusion in action.
• Learn how cross-sector collaboration can transform communities.
• Take away ideas you can apply in your own organisation or locality.
• Connect with others passionate about bridging the digital divide.

 
Who Should Join?

• Public sector professionals
• Third sector organisations
• Community leaders
• Businesses and social enterprises
• Anyone committed to digital inclusion

 
Speakers
James McKee, Digital Strategy Delivery Manager, Renfrewshire Council
Ross McNicol, Digital Participation Officer, Renfrewshire Council

Together, James and Ross will share insights, success stories, and practical tips for creating inclusive digital ecosystems

Ferguslie Learning Centre

The new programme for January 2026 is available here. 

All our courses are for adults 16+ and not in education, they are free of charge and people can take part in up to 3 courses.  There are 8 subjects to choose from and most classes will run for 2.5 hours per week for approx. 14 weeks.  

We will be holding Information and Enrolment Days on 6, 7 8 and 13, 14 and 15 January for anyone wishing to pop in for a chat with our team or to enrol. 
 
Kathleen Brown
Communities and Outreach Learning Centre Administrator
0141 842 1015 / 07980 696139

Reclaim the Night

Join Reclaim the Night and march to end domestic abuse, harassment and violence towards women and girls.

The annual event takes place on:

• Thursday 27 November
• 5.45pm
•  outside University of West of Scotland entrance, Paisley High Street

The march begins at 6pm and will be led by 3 young pipers down the high street to Dunn Square.

People of all ages are encouraged to bring banners, lanterns and drums to help shine a light and make some noise on this local and global issue. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

A memorial to those who have lost their lives to violence will take place in Dunn Square, including the laying of a wreath by Provost Lorraine Cameron. Linwood High pupil, Lewis, will sing for those attending.

Hot drinks will be available afterwards in Paisley Town Hall.

Reclaim The Night is organised by Renfrewshire Council with local partners. It has been running for 19 years and is held at the end of November during the United Nation’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

Scotland’s Virtual Lights to Remember Service 2025 – a Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving taking place on:

Wednesday 3rd December 2025 - 6:00pm

This virtual service offers a gentle space to honour and remember loved ones who have died. At the heart of the event is the lighting of a candle, representing the life and memory of someone cherished. It’s an opportunity for communities across Scotland to come together in reflection, connection and hope.

You can join the service using the link below:

mariecurie.org.uk/lights-to-remember

NHSGGC - Winter Vaccination Programme 2025/26 has information on our clinics, how to book an appointment as well as drop-in locations for the mobile unit and participating Community Pharmacies.  

Winter Loneliness Awarenss