Youngsters are urged to joinYouth Commission
Young people in Renfrewshire are being asked to help c h a n g e p e rc e p t i o n s surrounding mental health.
Renfrewshire’s Youth Commission is looking for more people aged 14 and upwards to get involved in creating positive change.
The commission was set up in November last year after mental health was voted the top priority issue for young people at the first- ever Youth Assembly held in Renfrewshire.
It provides an opportunity for young people in representative roles to meet together and work collectively on the most important issues affecting them.
Mental health problems affect about one in 10 children and young people, and include depression, anxiety and conduct disorder, often as a direct response to their circumstances.
UK statistics also show that 70 per cent of children who experience mental health issues do not receive appropriate interventions at a sufficiently early age.
Gemma Verlaque, 19, who is a member of the Youth Commission, said it’s vital that more young people get on board to help promote change.
She urged: “Good mental health is really important for young people, who may face issues at home, school or in the community.
“By joining our team you will be helping to shape what support is out there in the community.
“Our aim is to provide young people with the information they need to get help and support, especially during transition periods – such as leaving school.”
The commission meets every fortnight on a Wednesday evening between 4pm and 5.30pm during term time, and is holding a special summer session from July 24 to 28 across various venues in Paisley.
Renfrewshire Council’s convener of education and children’s services policy board, Councillor Jim Paterson, said the commission will help improve local services and provide appropriate help to those who may need it.
He told the Paisley Daily Express: “The Youth Commission is already making great progress in identifying barriers to good mental health in young people, but we know having more people involved will ensure we get a broad perspective on the issues that they face, and how we can support them in overcoming these challenges.
“Once the commission has collated its evidence, they will then make a set of recommendations to those who work with young people on how they should be supported and ensure all young people have the same support and experiences with services.
“Mental health is a big deal for youths and in Renfrewshire we will work hard to ensure we support our children with everything they need to reach their full potential.”
To find out more, contact Renfrewshire Council’s youth services team on 0141 889 1110 or email youth@renfrewshire.gov.uk