A DEDICATED support worker is celebrating one year of providing a vital service to families across Greenock. 

Jacqui Jack launched her 'play and learn' sessions in 2023 after she was made redundant from her role at Inverclyde Council. 

With help from Business Gateway, Jacqui set up her own company to run a group for youngsters and their families at Auchmountain Centre twice a week. 

To mark a successful 12 months, Jacqui invited families along for a party at the centre. 

Jacqui said it feels 'fantastic' to be celebrating a year of her own business. 

She added: "It's been a great year and I've been really busy. 

"I'm seeing 40 families over the two sessions and we're all getting to know each other. 

"The best part of what I'm doing is providing a service to the community of Inverclyde."

Jacqui said when her role with Inverclyde Council came to an end, she knew she wanted to keep using her skills. 

(Image: George Munro)
She now welcomes families to Auchmountain on Wednesday and Friday mornings for two-hour developmental play experiences for tots aged up to three. 

Jacqui added: "The group provides learning opportunities for children, and helps them to develop their curiosity, imagination, emotional, and social skills. 

"It's designed to support learning through play in a nurturing environment."

Jacqui has priced sessions per family and not per child to make it more affordable.

She said centre boss Annemarie Shearer and the team at Business Gateway have been a great support over the last 12 months. 

Jacqui said the group is as much a benefit to parents and grandparents as it is for children. 

She added: "I've always been very passionate about working with children and families. 

"Being a parent can sometimes be quite isolating and lonely. 

"This gives people the chance to meet each other in a relaxed environment and share their knowledge. 

"It's very inclusive and we have mums, dads, and grandparents coming along. 

"If anyone has any concerns about development, I always offer a listening ear."

First-time mum Fiona Tamburini brings her wee girl Mia, 19 months, to the sessions. 

She said the group is fantastic for both her and her little one. 

Fiona added: "Everyone is so welcoming and friendly, and it's so relaxed. 

"It's a fabulous service and it's not just about play, it's about everything attached to child development. 

"I've learned so much about how to support Mia with her social skills, and she's become so much more confident.

"You find out about the of pace of learning and the different stages children will go through. 

"It's fantastic for Mia and for me as a parent."