Muirhead Outreach Project
Family Support Service
Creating Connection & Empowering Families to Thrive
6 & 7 Pentland Court
Saltire Centre
Glenrothes
KY6 2DA
01592 358713
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Our Story
The Muirhead Outreach Project works with young people and their families to create connection and empower families to thrive. We aim to minimise the impact trauma has on families and help them to break their trauma cycle. We support families to repair and maintain relationships, with the vision that; any family who experiences difficulties can overcome them and go on to have healthy relationships, positive connections and positive experiences.​
Our aims are:
• Parents and children will have improved well-being.
• Parents and children will have improved self-esteem.
• Parents and children will have an increased sense of belonging
• Parents and children will have an increased sense of achievement.
• Families will have more positive experiences.
• Families will have more resilience.
• The impact of trauma will be lessened for families
• Families will be less isolated.
• Families will be alleviated of poverty.
• Children will display fewer concerning behaviours.
Family breakdown can be the result of relationship difficulties, individual problems, interpersonal difficulties, manifestation of earlier trauma or structural factors such as poverty. It is most likely a combination or interaction between these factors over a long period of time that can result in children ending up in care. With stress factors at a high and investment in the public at a low, the Muirhead Outreach Project provide early intervention with the intention of keeping families together, in their own communities, through challenging times. Providing timely support is vital, addressing a child or family's needs early on can reduce risk factors and increase protective factors in a child's life.
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Connected Parenting: Rebuilding Foundations for Family Well-being is our programme that helps families to overcome generational trauma and improves well-being for the whole family. Newly referred families undergo the 8-week foundation period, focusing on family routines, communication, emotions, attachment, and de-escalation techniques. This inclusive approach involves all household members and helps to improve everyone's quality of life.
Post-foundation, families can join various groups and workshops, such as parent groups, pet therapy, counselling and teen art well-being groups, which all foster development and social connections. Our support continues during school holidays with family days and beachside caravan breaks, ensuring ongoing engagement and a sense of belonging. We work on creating long-term, sustainable change that will, ultimately, improve society as a whole. The changes we aim to create with families, are life-long and help to break the transgenerational cycle of trauma and ill health.
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History
Muirhead was created in 2004 to work alongside social work and children's homes, to help support families to keep their children from being taken into care. Over the years, our services have developed and grown but our core mission is still to 'keep families together through challenging times'.
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In the early days Muirhead was run from a 'shoe box' office with all the work being carried out in the communities or family homes. Staff supported social work to work with families. It may have been to do with getting a child back to school, building a parent's confidence or supporting children moving back to their family home. Work at this time was funded by social work or local fundraising. ​
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As funding became more difficult and with local government experiencing cutbacks, social work was no longer able to fund the project and so we turned solely to applying for grants and fundraising. Workload increased and Muirhead were able to offer respite in the form of youth clubs and holiday clubs. 
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In 2017 we completed a review of the work that we did. It was clear that staff were able to build good relationships and that children enjoyed their time at Muirhead. ​ However, staff would often drop children home only to hear how they were still experiencing difficulties at school or with their siblings. The question became, how can a charity, with limited funding, make sustainable changes in the lives of the families they support? 
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​The answer, we believed, was in creating a program of work that would teach parents and their children the basics (in communication, emotions and de-escalating) before supporting them to build on this foundation. We had to meet our families where they were and work with them all. As a result, we became the only local organisation to work with the family, as a whole unit.
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In 2019 we changed our working model to become a self-referral service so we can respond to the first cry of help from families. We also accept referrals from other third sector organisations, social work, education and health care.
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Covid has had an enormous impact on the services we run. We went through another period of change, due to the pandemic, and felt our families would benefit more from family days in the holidays, the continuation of our foundation work, parent groups and workshops and counselling support rather than the youth clubs. Whilst we no longer hold the youth clubs, due to time, staff and volunteer restraints, as well as covid restrictions, we have links with another local charity who run youth groups. This means the young people we work with, have access to this important social connection and we provide a support and advice role.
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​In 2022, we worked with a counselling service to launch a pilot project. We now refer on to that project.
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What we do now
All newly referred families work through an 8-week foundation period where they learn about family routines, how to communicate in a positive way and how to effectively de-escalate. During this period, we work with the family as a whole – both parents and child (and anyone else that may stay in the home). We realise that sustainability means making changes for everyone in the home and, as a result of our inclusiveness, quality of life improves for all members of the family. ​
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Our work currently compromises:
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Connected Parenting: Rebuilding the Foundation for Family Well-being Programme
Parents group, well-being sessions and Workshops
Teen art wellbeing groups
Short breaks in our caravan
Access to counselling
Access to play & art therapy
Group Outreach sessions
Family STEM group
MOP Holiday Pop-ups (for full family participation)
Family days
Continuing support for families
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The Future!
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Due to the huge increase in referrals from a much wider geographical area, we aim to grow our charity in order to give support where needed. We aim to help families establish, maintain and nurture relationships. We want them to have a sense of belonging and purpose. A sense of belonging is crucial to life satisfaction, happiness, mental and physical health and even longevity. It gives us a sense of purpose and meaning. Research has shown that loss of belonging has been associated with stress,
illness and decreased wellbeing and depression. We want them to have the tools to repair and rebuild their connections and relationships and the resilience to continue that work throughout their lives.
Our vision is that any family who experiences difficulties, can overcome them and go on to have healthy relationships, positive connections and positive experiences.
We want to build partnerships with other organisations and become known as experts in repairing family relationships and helping families to break the trauma cycle. We want to be voice for families, creating change, reducing stigma and building relationships in all sectors.
To do this, we aim to develop our services by adding more staff, volunteers and services and creating hubs in the communities we support. We aim to drive our service forward by increasing the areas we work in and the number of people we can support.
We want to provide a flexible and understanding workplace, paying above the living wage. Our staff will be motivated, skilled and diverse and we will attract the right expertise to deliver our strategic priorities. We aim to help people back into the workforce thereby reducing the number of people relying on benefits. Studies show that employment provides improved self-esteem and better well-being. It provides a sense of purpose and achievement. Having high self-esteem is key to positive mental health and well-being. High self-esteem is also linked to pro-social behaviour and positive familial relationships. A 2014 study found higher self-esteem led to more loving and supportive relationships within families. High self-esteem is considered to be protective against many mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. Low self-esteem is linked to depression and poor physical health. Low self-esteem is also linked to depression and poor physical health, achievements are central to our self-esteem and sense of self. We need to achieve to feel worthy, achieving something can make you feel on top of the world and boost your mood enhancing brain chemicals. This also links to Scotland, The Promise; where nurturing the workforce is key:
"Supporting the workforce to care must be at the heart of Scotland’s service planning. Supervision and reflective practice is essential for all practitioners, regardless of their professional discipline or role, who are working with children."
We want to diversify our income by gaining multi-year funding, creating and delivering workshops to other professionals and providing spaces for community hubs and rental to other organisations. We hope to secure funding for the Charity Development Officer salary in order to ensure our charity is continues to be here for the long-term.
We want to bring communities together through events that not only benefit the charity but the local area and society as a whole. Our Rainbow Run Glenrothes and our Muirhead Bake-off are two examples of events we hold which aims to increase income and participation year on year, bringing fun and a sense of community to the local people and other organisations.
We constantly strive to ensure isolation is reduced and the community has more opportunity for achieving and a stronger sense of belonging. We will work collaboratively to ensure that our community is able to shape their care, based on their needs. We will be reaching out to and forging bonds with local businesses and other organisations to share learning and good practise.
Shannon Wright CEO
Shannon stepped into the world beyond school at the end of 6th year, embarking on a journey without a clear destination in mind. With a desire to explore her passions, she enrolled in college and pursued a course in Supporting Additional Needs at Fife College. It was during her placement with Fife Council in off-campus schools, working as a pupil support assistant, that Shannon discovered her true calling—caring for children who exhibited social, emotional, and challenging behaviours.
This newfound passion blossomed into a fulfilling 20-year career in Child Residential Care. Along the way, Shannon dedicated herself to continuous learning, earning a multitude of qualifications, including an HNC in Social Care and SVQs at levels 2 and 3. She further explored her passion for childhood development through the Open University, achieving a diploma in Childhood Studies. Shannon also enhanced her skill set with Level 1 training in Dyadic Development Psychotherapy, as well as additional training in Talking Mats, sound-based strategies for neurodivergence and ASD, young people’s mental health, and approaches for supporting challenging behaviour. Her understanding of attachment, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES), and trauma-informed care has shaped her into the compassionate leader she is today.
Now serving as the CEO and Child Protection Officer at Muirhead, Shannon combines her extensive 20+ years of experience with numerous CPD-accredited qualifications to safeguard and support children effectively. Her commitment to childcare extends beyond the workplace; she passionately collaborates with parents, guiding them on how to facilitate environments where children can thrive emotionally and socially. Shannon fosters curiosity among parents, encouraging them to explore potential challenges their children may face and brainstorm creative solutions that nurture their children’s needs through co-regulation, ultimately enhancing their development and well-being.
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Outside her professional life, Shannon embraces her roles as a devoted wife and mother, cherishing the time spent supporting her children as they chase their passions for football and fitness. Culinary exploration excites her, whether she’s whipping up meals in the kitchen or relishing experiences at local restaurants—she proudly identifies as a bit of a foodie. In finding balance, Shannon also enjoys working out and unwinding during long walks with her beloved dog, Dennis, discovering peace and joy in nature.
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Recently, she has developed a passion for meditation and mindfulness, which add depth to her well-being journey. One of her favourite pastimes is people-watching; the intricacies of human behaviour captivate her. A self-proclaimed reality TV enthusiast, Shannon indulges in guilty pleasures like "The Real Housewives" franchise and "Love Island," revelling in the drama and dynamics of everyday life.
Janine Norris Charity Development Manager
Janine is an exceptional asset to our team, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for her work. Since joining Mop in 2020, she has honed her skills through the challenging lockdown periods, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. With a 1st class degree in Primary Education, Janine excels in writing applications, securing funding, and building strong relationships with funders and supporters. Her organisational prowess shines through in the successful events and family days she coordinates.
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Her extensive experience in the charity sector is truly impressive. Janine dedicated eight years to Fife Sands, serving in various leadership roles including chair, treasurer, and body, and currently holds the position of vice-chair for the Sands Scotland steering group. Her previous roles at Home-start Dunfermline and Trauma Healing Together and current role with Carnegie Dunfermline Trust, further highlight her commitment to supporting mental health and the local community.
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Beyond her professional achievements, Janine is an avid reader and nature enthusiast. She enjoys wild swimming and camping adventures with her husband and children, embodying a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Janine's dedication, expertise, and passion make her an invaluable member of any organisation.
Linda Yorke Admin asst. and Secretary of our Trustees
Linda is an invaluable part-time Administrator, bringing a diverse and rich background in PA and administrative roles across various business sectors, including insurance, financial advising, pharmaceuticals, and retail.
Born in Fife, Linda spent many years in England before returning to Scotland, where she found her calling at Muirhead. This role provided her with unique insights into the care sector and the profound impact a small, dedicated charity can have on the community.
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Linda's meticulous attention to detail and passion for assisting the professional team with record-keeping and filing ensure smooth and efficient operations. Her organisational skills and dedication are truly commendable.
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Outside of work, Linda enjoys a well-rounded and fulfilling life. She loves to travel, knit, and explore new dining experiences. Her varied interests and experiences make her not only a skilled administrator but also a well-rounded and engaging individual. Linda's commitment, expertise, and vibrant personality make her an exceptional asset to our team.
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Ainsley Dryburgh Senior Family Support Worker
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Ainsley is an extraordinary professional who brings 13 years of invaluable experience in residential childcare provision to Muirhead. She has worked with young people aged 11 to 21, many of whom have faced complex childhoods, neuro-diverse diagnoses, and trauma. Her hands-on experience, coupled with ongoing training, has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to help these young individuals flourish into their best selves.
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Ainsley's dedication to her work is evident through her completion of official qualifications, including an HNC in Health & Social Care and an SVQ 3 in Children & Young People. Her curiosity about children's behaviors has driven her to understand that these behaviors are a form of communication. She believes it is our responsibility as adults to decipher what children need and foster that connection, a principle reaffirmed during her recent trauma-informed parenting training.
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Ainsley is passionate about empowering parents to become curious about their children's behaviours, to see what lies behind them, and to provide the connection their children are seeking. Her commitment to supporting mental health and her profound understanding of child development make her an invaluable member of the MOP community.
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​​​​Kris Ross Family Support Worker
Kris is an incredible professional with over 20 years of experience as a children and family worker. Her extensive background includes running a playgroup and nursery provision specialising in under-fives for over a decade. Kris holds a qualification in Early Years from Adam Smith College, focusing on Children's Care Learning and Development from birth to 16 years. Her expertise expanded further as she managed a youth club for eight years, working with various age groups and gaining a deep understanding of older children, their families, and Additional Support Needs.
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Kris's commitment to continuous learning is evident through her studies in child development, autism, childhood studies, and child psychology with the Open University. She has also completed the Health and Social Care Module required for the Certificate of Children and Families, alongside specialised training in trauma, CAMHS courses on supporting families to manage risk, helping children and young people flourish and expressive arts workshops. Her recent Level 2 Counselling Skills course at West of Scotland College has further enhanced her ability to support families effectively.
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As a volunteer with Muirhead for several years before officially joining the team, Kris has demonstrated her dedication and passion for making a difference. Her training with Sleep Scotland enables her to assist families in improving their children's sleep quality for better wellbeing.
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Kris's love for football and coaching her children's teams has given her unique insights into supporting children's resilience and helping them achieve their goals. She understands that progress is a journey and is committed to guiding young people and their families through it.
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Outside of her professional life, Kris enjoys reading current research on child psychology, neurodiversity, mental health, and sports psychology. She is an avid movie lover, always has a song in her heart, and cherishes adventures with her family. Kris loves attending gigs, especially those by Stereophonics, and has four children—two who have flown the nest, two teens, and two well-trained big dogs.
Kris's dedication, expertise, and vibrant personality make her an exceptional asset to the MOP team.
Louise Ellis Family Support Worker
Louise is a dedicated and passionate professional who has made significant strides in her career. After leaving school at 16 and exploring various roles, she found her true calling in the care sector. With 8 years of experience ranging from child residential care to home support for vulnerable adults, Louise has developed a deep understanding and empathy for those she supports.
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Her commitment to furthering her career led her to complete an HNC in Health and Social Care in 2021, showcasing her dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. Louise's interest in child mental health is evident through her completion of a course with MsMissMrs, designed to help teenagers with self-esteem, relationships, and boundaries. She has already made a positive impact on the girls involved with Muirhead and is eager to continue this important work.
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Louise's recent completion of the NSPCC Child Protection course further highlights her commitment to safeguarding and supporting children. Her role in running the Muirhead Art Wellbeing Group every week demonstrates her dedication to fostering creativity and emotional well-being in the community.
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Outside of her professional life, Louise is a devoted mother of three. She enjoys attending football matches with her son, who plays for the local team and spending quality time with her two daughters, indulging in shopping trips and watching their favourite TV shows together.
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Louise's blend of professional expertise, personal dedication, and passion for mental health makes her an exceptional asset to the MOP team. Her ability to connect with and support individuals, coupled with her continuous pursuit of knowledge, ensures she will continue to make a meaningful impact in the care sector.
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​​​​​​​​Carolann Morrison Family Support Worker
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Carolann is an invaluable part-time Family Support Worker for MOP, whose passion for supporting families is deeply rooted in her own experiences as a previous service user. As a mother of eight children, three of whom have ASD, Carolann brings a unique blend of personal and professional insight to her role. Her innovative and out-of-the-box thinking makes her a strong asset to the team.
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Carolann's journey began with raising her children and volunteering for a local charity. She initially pursued nursing but found her true calling in community work, which she discovered while studying at Fife College. This led to her role as an Inclusion Assistant at Fife College, where she gained valuable experience that she continues to build upon through ongoing learning and training workshops.
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Her particular interest in learning difficulties, ASD, and ADHD is driven by her personal experiences, which enable her to support others navigating similar challenges. Carolann believes in the power of learning from the families she supports, often gaining valuable insights that she shares with others.
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Carolann has completed trauma-informed training, enhancing her ability to reflect on her practices and provide the best support possible. She recently attended a workshop on social stories with Access Therapies Fife, which helps children and individuals understand social situations and expectations. Additionally, her participation in CAMHS courses, including an art therapy workshop, supports her role in running the art wellbeing group on Tuesdays. Carolann is also collaborating with Ainsley and Fife College to establish a STEM group, encouraging families to work together on creative projects.
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In her spare time, Carolann loves adventures with her family, whether camping, visiting the beach, or enjoying the thrills at Alton Towers. She is also training her dogs to become TheraPets, with the hope of incorporating them into her work with families in the future.
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Carolann's dedication, extensive experience, and heartfelt commitment to supporting families make her an extraordinary member of the MOP team. Her ability to connect with and empower others, combined with her continuous pursuit of knowledge, ensures she will continue to make a significant impact in the community.
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Clare Fox Sessional Counsellor
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Clare Fox is an outstanding counsellor and the driving force behind Fox Counselling Services. Since November 2024, Clare has been a vital partner of Muirhead Outreach Project, delivering exceptional counselling services to their users.
Her journey to becoming a counsellor began with a solid foundation in community education, specifically working with parents and families. This background has made her an ideal fit for Muirhead Outreach Project, where her goals, values, and ethics align seamlessly with the organisation's mission.
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Clare's expertise is vast and deeply rooted in a trauma-informed approach. She has extensive experience addressing issues such as domestic abuse, childhood abuse, substance use, criminal justice, and various life stage challenges including adolescence, parenthood, menopause, retirement, and bereavement. Her qualifications enable her to work effectively with both adults and young people, offering sessions face-to-face, over the phone, or via online platforms.
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Clare's approach to counselling is centered on helping individuals understand and process their difficulties, empowering them to change problematic behavior patterns. Her dedication to providing therapeutic support is evident in her commitment to Muirhead Outreach Project's mission of supporting families and offering funded counselling services.
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If you believe you could benefit from Clare's expertise or have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to the staff at Muirhead Outreach Project. They will be more than happy to explore how Clare's counselling services can support you.
Clare's compassionate, knowledgeable, and client-centered approach makes her an strong resource for anyone seeking support and guidance.
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