Laura’s experience in the world of community learning and development (CLD) has been truly diverse. She’s done youth work in prisons and on the streets, as well as developing and delivering community-based programmes in the construction industry. Oh, and she also managed to study for a PhD examining social value and community education in relation to the construction industry*.
Laura’s is an inspiring story. She’s ambitious to create change for communities and is naturally curious, always searching for how communities can be enhanced through her work in CLD.
Like many in the CLD sector, Laura’s own life experience was the driving force behind her desire to help others. As a younger teenager, she dropped out of school and got caught up making negative life choices and thought she’d lead a life that had no real positive destination or opportunity. But with the help of youth work practice, and in particular one youth worker (now a life-long friend and mentor), Laura started voluntary peer education work when she was 17 years old. This experience inspired Laura to pursue a career in CLD that has seen her go from strength to strength.
Laura’s early specialisation was in ‘detached youth work’ – working on the streets with young people already known to the justice system – engaging with gangs on their own stomping ground. It was tough work, but something she could relate to. She soon realised she could turn her passion into a career
“If you can work within a prison setting or on the streets within communities, you can work anywhere in CLD, as you’re faced with some of the toughest conditions you could imagine.”
Alongside the street work, Laura ran youth clubs and worked in addiction and social work services whilst studying community education at university. However, she eventually opted for a change and transitioned to work in the construction industry, where she engages with communities across Scotland and the UK on projects that enhance community benefit and social value.
Laura sees many parallels with community youth work and the construction industry, “The biggest thing is relationships and getting to understand and become integrated to a community, it’s the cornerstone of what we do. Being able to build relationships quite quickly and sustain them, that’s been one of the best things. It’s also about empowering communities to take charge and inspire them to instigate change themselves.”
“My granny used to say, never forget your roots, never forget where you come from. I have been extremely fortunate, and employment was what saved me” Laura says.
“I think there’s so much more that the world can do collectively; the private sector can really help and support local communities. For me, it’s about building relationships, and engaging with all stakeholders to provide positive engagements that help to enhance and create impactful change within those communities and the wider economy.”
Laura has been a professional member of the CLD Standards Council since she graduated from the BA Hons Community Education course at The University West of Scotland, and she recommends all those interested or working within the CLD sector to join.
“Being a member gives those working in communities as volunteers or CLD practitioners a sense of identity; it gives us a place to engage with other people working in the field both local and nationally. You’re part of a recognised professional body” she said.
Laura has been invited to present at CLD Standards Council events, with some workshops exclusive to members – another benefit of registering as a member!
“I can’t wait to talk about my research to a room full of community practitioners! They’re the ones that hold the key in terms of knowledge, understanding and information on all things communities. Providing exposure of CLD practice taking place within the construction industry will hopefully instigate more cross-sector working that helps to enhance and improve communities.”
*Laura’s PhD will examine the landscape of social value, and how this contributes new knowledge to improve understanding of community education methods and values that the construction industry in one engages with and impacts on communities and the wider economy.
To find out more about membership of the CLD Standards Council click here