Suzanne McGregor of Clydesdale locality’s children and families team was recently identified as one of the most frequent users of Mind of My Own in the United Kingdom.

Mind Of My Own Ltd makes technology for social good. The company runs two apps for children and young people who use health, care and education services. The apps, which are used by South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, enable young people to have their voices heard and to participate in decisions made about their lives.

Suzanne explained how the technology is proving to be an invaluable addition to way she connects with young people in a digital age.
“My work is hugely varied,” said Suzanne, 27. “Along with the team, we support children and young people who may be affected by a spectrum of factors.
“These can include, for example, poverty, child protection concerns to the impact alcohol and substance dependency can have on family lives.
“Regardless of the challenges, a crucially important aspect of the support we provide is establishing solid communication, trust and dialogue with our young service users.
Suzanne continued: “Mind of My Own is an app so it’s really natural and intuitive for young people to use.
“It encourages app users to record their views and feelings often ahead of any meeting we have.
“It may be, for example what they’d like to talk about during the meeting, who they’d like to be there or noting their feelings about how a certain situation made them feel at the time it happens.
“The themes are varied – but carefully set up to helping us attain better outcomes for the individuals we are supporting.
“Some of our service users can be reluctant to open up verbally about what’s on their mind. 
“This technology is providing a really effective way for people, especially young people, to engage with us - and vice versa.”

Liam Purdie, Head of Children & Justice Services and Chief Social Work Officer praised Suzanne’s commitment. 
“Suzanne has been recognised as one of the most prolific users of this programme in the UK,” said Liam. “This is a great achievement and reflects the broader, child-centred approach in our children and families teams. They are absolutely focussed on ensuring that children, often the most vulnerable in our communities, are listened to and their views heard.
“My sincere congratulations and thanks to Suzanne - and all our teams - for their vitally important work and dedication, especially at this time.”