Common Thread provides residential childcare and education across Scotland. Our homes are modelled on a nurturing, supportive small family environment. Our schools work with each child’s potential and interests to enhance their learning experience. Together, these provide a unique and person-centred approach in which young people thrive.
Our story
Common Thread was founded by Julie Joseph in 2004 with the mission to lead in the creation and provision of innovative healing environments for children and young people hurt by trauma, abuse, and neglect. Young people are first and centre of everything we do – a focus shared by all staff members, carers, and support workers.
We’ve grown organically over the years, expanding from two houses in Dumfries and Galloway to delivering care and education in the Central Belt and Scottish Highlands.
Our first school opened in 2009 – inspired by Julie’s belief that educational provision is essential to providing exceptional childcare. Our second school opened soon after. Our schools provide a supportive, nurturing and inclusive environment for learners who don’t thrive in mainstream education.
Our values
Our values shape our care model and every part of the way we work.
Young People First
We put the needs and interests of young people at the heart of our service
Creativity
We invite and encourage creativity and positivity in everyone we work with
Leadership
We develop the leadership potential of every team member – both young people and staff
Sustainable and ethical
We consider our impact on the wellbeing of the planet and future generations
Integrity and honesty
We encourage people to act with honesty and integrity at all times and in everything they do
Our vision
Common Thread aims to inspire the sector by offering exceptional, therapeutic and innovative care, tailored to the needs and unlimited potential of every member of our community.
Our mission
Our mission is to nurture and support the healing and empowerment of young people hurt by trauma, abuse and neglect— with loving environments, with acts of kindness, and with words and deeds of encouragement and support.
Our purpose
- to create a therapeutic community for both our young people and our staff, where every member can find a sense of belonging and the opportunity to thrive.
- Working in collaboration with others, we uphold the needs and rights of young people in a world where they are mostly overlooked.
- To offer nurture, love and deep understanding to young people to help them heal from past traumas.
- To unlock pathways to opportunities so young people can learn to believe in a brighter, more hopeful future, with the skills they need to achieve positive change and begin to rebuild their lives.
- To use fun and playfulness, creativity and imagination in our practice and in the places we make.