Youth conference sends pupils healthy message
Dozens turn out to put mental health in spotlight
Sarah Jane McDonald Pupils across South Ayrshire came together to learn about positive mental health at the eighth South Ayrshire youth conference ‘ Say it Out Loud!’.
The day highlighted the importance of mental wellbeing, with 88 people aged 11- 25 attending the event which aimed to make everyone feel valued and listened to.
South Ayrshire’s Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament and chair of the South Ayrshire Youth Forum Codie Hodge delivered a thought- provoking presentation, discussing the main issues affecting young people.
And pop- up workshops proved a big hit, with interactive tables including Good Food Good Mood, Mental Health 1st Aid and Creativity and Mindfulness giving everyone the chance to learn something new.
Schools spokeswoman Councillor Margaret Toner said: “I am delighted young people attending the conference got so much out of it.
“It was clear during discussions that some have already experienced dealing with mental health issues so the messages of support and opportunity resonated.
“We will continue to work with our partners to highlight mental health issues and tackle the problem head on.”
Codie Hodge said: “I was so pleased to find out mental health was the main focus of the youth conference this year as it’s a topic I hold close to my heart.
“It was amazing to hear some of the feedback, with many feeling a sense of relief that the taboo subject of mental health was finally being openly discussed.
“Some of the actions we got from consulting with everyone were amazing and I look forward to taking them forward in all the schools across South Ayrshire.”