Body image in the spotlight
The First Minister’s National Advisory Council on Women and Girls (NACWG) is calling on the people of Rutherglen and Cambuslang to have their say in its latest discussion surrounding body image.
Increased societal pressures relating to “body image standards” and the rise in use of social media has had a considerable impact on many women and girls of all ages.
Discrimination, developing distorted perceptions and dealing with low selfesteem, often with associated mental health consequences, are just some of the issues.
As part of the # GenerationEqual movement, the NACWG would like to hear views on body image from local residents of all genders and those who don’t identify to help inform its findings and shape its recommendations to the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
Louise Macdonald, co- chair of the organisation, said: “In today’s society women and girls still face huge pressures to look a certain way as they compare their appearance to others on social media, magazines and in advertisements.
“Poor self- confidence can be extremely damaging, and can lead to many women and girls struggling with their self-worth and place in society.
“The advisory council is inviting groups, organisations and networks in Rutherglen and Cambuslang to share their experiences, opinions and ideas around the body image Spotlight.
“Every bit of feedback will help advise the First Minister and drive action in creating long- lasting change for women and girls in Scotland.”
To participate, local groups, organisations and networks are encouraged to form a virtual “Wee Circle” to discuss these issues and share ideas on how they can be tackled.
Feedback from these discussions, as well as individual feedback, can be submitted at onescotland.org/NACWG alternatively, thoughts can be shared on social media using the hashtag #GenerationEqual.