Argyll youngsters find its cool2talk

ARGYLL and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) launched an online information and support service in Campbeltown Grammar School on June 14

he service, called Cool2talk, (www.cool2talk.org), is an online space for young people across Argyll and Bute to have their questions answered in the knowledge that they will be responded to promptly by a trained person who won’t judge, but will offer information and guidance.

Sam Campbell, senior health improvement specialist for the HSCP, said: ‘We were delighted to launch Cool2Talk.

‘Questions posted to the Cool2Talk website will be answered within 24 hours, 365 days a year so young people can get access to information which is written specifically for them.

‘The questions they ask and the answers received will then be posted anonymously on the website so everyone can benefit from the information. The website doesn’t ask for personal information and doesn’t identify the person asking the question.

‘Not only will the website contain a resource for parents/ carers and professionals, it will also include a directory of local/ national services on a range of topics that have been highlighted by young people as important.

‘ Young people using the site can also access online support from a qualified counsellor one evening a week at the One2One session. This is presently only available once a week but we are currently investigating plans to extend this further.

‘This valuable service offers reassurance, encouragement, information and advice on any health related issue and, if required, signposting to appropriate local or national services.’