Linc Cymru and USW launch strategic partnership

The partnership aims to make a positive difference to society and the lives of people across the region.

Fostering key links in applied research, student placements, and curriculum development, the partnership with the School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies demonstrates USW’s commitment to provide challenge-based learning and teaching experiences and to build external partnerships to improve wellbeing in the community.

Under the terms of the MoU, both parties will commit to supporting the work of Psychology students and collaborative research projects.

They are already working towards the following collaborations:

• Knowledge Economy Skills Scholarships (KESS) have funded two research projects
• Co-creation of the new MSc Psychology Conversion course (online delivery)
• USW undergraduate students are working on live briefs evaluating a Linc Cymru and Children in Wales project
• USW is providing music therapy within Linc’s Extra Care scheme.

At the event, the agreement was signed by Scott Sanders CEO, and Richard Davies, Executive Director of People and Place, from Linc, and Dr Jo Fowler, Head of School of Psychology and Therapeutic Practice.

Dr Rachel Taylor, Course Leader MSc Psychology, said: “This collaboration is essential for USW Psychology students as it provides them with an opportunity to contextualise their learning in the real world. Most Psychology students want to help people and this partnership is an opportunity for them to do that.”

Richard Davies, Executive Director People and Place, Linc, said: “The launch of our partnership with USW is a significant step forward as we seek to utilise research for the benefit and wellbeing of our customers and local communities.

“The event was a wonderful display of how collaboration can help us to think differently, and it was a joy to hear from students who are already benefitting from the opportunity to gain experience in our sector. Their passion and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others was evident.

“At Linc, our purpose is ‘creating the right environment for people to flourish’ and we believe that by working with USW to co-create curriculum, provide student placement opportunities, and put into practice the research that is undertaken, we will achieve positive outcomes for our customers.

“We look forward to strengthening our partnership and building upon the exciting opportunities that are underway.”

Dr Linda Evans, Dean of the USW’s Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, said: “Partnerships like these are vital for USW as we implement our 2030 strategy, maximising positive impact for our students, partners, and communities.”

A video about the partnership can be viewed here: USW and Linc Cymru launch strategic partnership - YouTube