A GRADUATE from the University of Worcester graduate is helping young people in the county get their voices heard.

Jade Russell, who graduated in November last year with an MSc in applied psychology, has secured a job with Worcestershire County Council.

Her role - participation development support worker - involves working with children to help them have an influence on decisions that affect their lives.

She said: "I did my research dissertation around young people and making their voices heard.

"Children always have decisions made for them rather than being part of that decision making process.

"I want to help change that and to empower young people, giving them the tools and the confidence to make themselves heard."

Jade, who also completed her undergraduate degree, in counselling psychology, at Worcester, said her new role was challenging her to use the expertise acquired while at university.

She also works at the university as specialist support tutor, studied for her Masters’ degree part time while working full-time with children with social and emotional behavioural difficulties.

Her long-term aim is to become an educational psychologist.

Dr Gabriela Misca, course Llader for the MSc in applied psychology, said: "Jade’s inspirational work, combining postgraduate study with relevant practice experience enabled her to secure a key position working with children and young people.

"We are immensely proud that one of our Master’s graduates is empowering the children of Worcestershire to be heard."