Groundbreaking support facility to open at Rossie
An innovative new facility supporting children and young people in the care system is set to open in Angus.
The Brothers and Sisters Project, set in Coorie House, is built within the woodland grounds of Rossie Young People’s Trust near Montrose, providing a warm and welcoming space where siblings separated by care placements can meet, play, and build lasting connections.
Handed over to Rossie by Arbroath-based construction firm Brian Doig Contractors, Coorie House will be available to anyone in care from across Scotland, as well as those already living at Rossie in residential care.
The facility builds on the sector-leading, award-winning work of Rossie Young People’s Trust, which has a history spanning more than 160 years. Rossie is home to a community of young people aged up to 18 from across the UK who have a range of complex needs.
Employing over 170 staff, the charity is one of the largest employers in the Montrose area and works closely with the local community to provide bespoke education, specialist support, and welfare for the young people in its care.
Michael Scanlin, trust deputy chief executive officer, said, “For children in residential care, foster care, or kinship placements, maintaining sibling relationships can be challenging, yet these connections can mean everything to them. Traditional meeting spaces such as social work offices or cafés can feel too formal or too busy, often preventing children and young people from relaxing and connecting, or providing the respect and dignity they deserve.
“Coorie House, named after the Scottish word meaning to nestle or find comfort, has been purpose-built and designed as a bright, open, and playful space where siblings can spend time together, both indoors and out, in a way that suits them.”
Due to open in the Spring, the project is now seeking volunteers who can commit at least five hours each month.
Once trained, volunteers will be matched with sibling groups to support their relationships through play, helping create positive, lasting memories for the children and young people who will enjoy the space.
Cara Jamieson, project co-ordinator, has been appointed to oversee Coorie House, working closely with volunteers and staff, and is hosting a volunteer recruitment open day in January for anyone interested in getting involved.
She said: “We’re looking for a diverse mix of volunteers who, more than anything, really want to help make a difference to the lives of young people. You might bring a specific skill or interest, like baking or sports, be really creative or love gardening. Or perhaps you have lived experience of the care sector or have volunteered or worked in education or youth services
"Whatever you bring, you’ll be compassionate and enthusiastic, eager to shape activities around the child or young person's interests. Our vision is that a strong team of dedicated volunteers will be at the heart of Coorie House and all that it will offer families”.
The project has been funded by a £250,000 grant from Corra Foundation through The Promise Funds, with further investment from Rossie Young People’s Trust.
To find out more, contact Cara at [email protected] or visit Brothers & Sisters Volunteering Opportunity - Rossie Young People's Trust.