Swinney’s praise for young people’s mental health project

Deputy First Minister John Swinney has heaped praise on a lifeline mental health service in Perth.

The Lost in Translation project focuses on recovery through creativity and is aimed at young people aged 16 to 25.

Local SNP MSP Mr Swinney visited the PKAVS-run service at its base in the Fair City’s Walled Garden.

The project has received more than 70 referrals since its launch last year.

It is now highly regarded for its work to improve the wellbeing of local teenagers and young adults with mental health problems.

Mr Swinney said: “It is wonderful to see a project like this taking a unique and very effective approach to addressing the issue of mental health in young people.

“Speaking to the young people and PKAVS staff, it was clear that the benefits are significant and come at a time of great need to those accessing the service.”

He added: “I very much look forward to hearing about further successes from the team.”

Sarah Oelmez, PKAVS mental health and wellbeing hub manager, said: “Lost in Transition is an excellent example of prevention and early intervention as it seeks to help young people going through a difficult time access support and activities to promote their mental wellbeing before clinical interventions are required.”

She added: “The next step is to ensure Lost in Transition becomes sustainable beyond March 2019 and continues to help more and more young people progress into more positive destinations.”

PKAVS helps improve the lives and wellbeing of more than 5,000 people each year.