Culture ‘keeps us positive’

Young people are Linwood say culture can boost mental health.

Drama group Linwood Youth Voice has used their art to raise awareness over the importance of positive mental health.

Members of the group are on a mission to prove that cultural activities should be accessible in all communities and that it doesn’t need to be expensive.

The troupe say that drama and culture can increase confidence, self-esteem and self-belief – all of which are vital to be instilled in people from a young age.

Nathan McCuaig, aged 17 is chair of Linwood Youth Voice.

He wants to encourage youngsters to get involved in cultural activities so that they can socialise and express themselves.

He said: “Drama is a fantastic way to boost your confidence and come out of your shell as a young person.

“It is important that every young person has the opportunity to get involved in drama and creative expression in their local community.

“It has helped us create our own voice here in Linwood and it has inspired many of us to look at getting involved in creative industries as a career.”

“What we have built up in Linwood, through the support of youth services and Renfrewshire’s Culture, Heritage and Events fund, is a movement around drama.

“Young people have come together through their shared interest in drama.”