TSI Knowledge Network – Session 5
Featuring: Canine Partners & MCR Pathways
Last Updated: 28 May 2026
23/09/2025
This session of the TSI Knowledge Network brought together MCR Pathways and Canine Partners to share insights into the ways their organisations support individuals through mentoring, inclusion, and life-changing services. The session highlighted how different approaches across the third sector can empower people, build confidence, and improve wellbeing within communities.
Both organisations showcased the impact of person-centred support and meaningful relationships in helping individuals overcome barriers and achieve greater independence. From mentoring young people through education to providing highly trained assistance dogs for disabled people, the session reflected the wide-ranging and transformative work taking place across the third sector.
Featured Organisations
Canine Partners
About:
Canine Partners is a charity that breeds, trains, and supports assistance dogs for people living with physical disabilities. Through carefully matched partnerships, their highly trained dogs provide practical assistance, companionship, and greater independence, helping individuals live with increased confidence and freedom.
Highlight – Assistance Dogs & Independent Living
Canine Partners shared an overview of how assistance dogs can transform daily life for people living with physical disabilities. The session explored the training process, the practical support dogs provide, and the strong partnerships formed between individuals and their assistance dogs. The presentation also highlighted opportunities for volunteering, fundraising, and community involvement, while demonstrating the wider impact assistance dogs can have on independence, emotional wellbeing, and quality of life.
Key Focus Areas:
- Assistance dogs for physical disabilities
- Promoting independence and confidence
- Volunteer and community involvement
- Emotional wellbeing and companionship
Contact Details:
- Contacts: Sarah McKean
- Email: sarah.mckean@caninepartners.org.uk
- Website: caninepartners.org.uk/
MCR Pathways
About:
MCR Pathways is a mentoring charity dedicated to helping young people realise their full potential through relationship-based support and guidance. Working closely with schools, mentors, and local communities, the organisation supports young people to build confidence, develop aspirations, and access positive opportunities for the future.
Highlight – Mentoring & Young People’s Futures
During the session, MCR Pathways shared insights into the positive impact mentoring can have on young people’s confidence, wellbeing, and future outcomes. Their work focuses on building trusted relationships and providing consistent encouragement to help young people navigate challenges and recognise their potential. The session highlighted the value of community involvement and the important role mentors can play in supporting young people to achieve their goals.
Key Focus Areas:
- Mentoring and relationship-based support
- Supporting young people’s confidence and aspirations
- Education and positive future pathways
- Community and volunteer engagement
Contact Details:
- Email:
- Tel: 0141 221 0200
- Website: https://mcrpathways.org/
Session Resources
Perth & Kinross Association of Voluntary Service Ltd (PKAVS) is a registered Scottish Charity (005561) and a Scottish Company Limited by guarantee (SC086065).