Swinney samples the Wholistic way of life
Deputy First Minister’s trip to charity in Larkhall
A Larkhall-based charity were recently visited by the Deputy First Minister John Swinney.
Wholistic Life - Coaching for Kids were visited by the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Mr Swinney in a visit organised through MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina Mckelvie MSP.
Mr Swinney, who recently announced a £2m funding boost for South Lanarkshire schools in addition to the £170 million Attainment Scotland Fund, visited the Larkhall based charity in recognition of their use of Pupil Equity Funding.
The Pupil Equity Fund (PEF) – £120 million of dedicated funding from the Scottish Government – is designed to narrow the attainment gap.
The funding is specifically allocated to each school in Scotland for school leaders to best decide how to distribute.
Wholistic Life have been the recipients of PEF money, running their Mindpower and health and wellbeing programmes throughout South Lanarkshire.
The visit from Mr Swinney comes during the #PEFSCOT18 campaign, celebrating 100 days of action regarding the Pupil Equity Fund.
Commenting on the visit, MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina Mckelvie said Wholistic Life were ‘working wonders’: “I was delighted that the Deputy First Minister was able to visit my constituency, noting the outstanding work of Wholistic Life.
“Their dynamic and bold use of the Scottish Government’s Pupil Equity Fund continues to work wonders for our young people, improving their confidence, focus and wellbeing within the classroom.
“Through their mental health and wellness programmes, Susan and Aimee are providing a vital outlet for my constituents to help with their learning.
“It was a great privilege to have the Deputy First Minster hear first-hand from the pupils about the positive impact Wholistic Life is having on their learning, creating responsible, confident citizens.
Susan Livingstone, co-founder of Wholistic Life added:“we were absolutely delighted to welcome the Deputy First Minister to the Wholistic Life Wellness Centre right at the heart of our community here in Larkhall.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for him to hear first-hand from local young people how the work of our organisation has had a really positive impact.
“We will continue to work in partnership with schools to deliver Mindpower for as many pupils as possible to ensure that they develop the confidence, self-esteem and resilience to live happy, healthy and fulfilled lives”. and empowered young