Scottish Youth Parliament advocates for improved mental health
The SYP’s recent session at Holyrood addressed improving mental health support for young people, featuring workshops and resources from Change Mental Health.
On Saturday 2nd November 2024, the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) returned to Holyrood for the first time in eight years, bringing fresh energy to the iconic debating chamber. Members of the SYP tabled motions and engaged in discussions, setting out plans and priorities for the session ahead.
One of the SYP’s three main aims for this parliament session is to increase mental health support for young people and those who work with them. Change Mental Health was delighted to support this aim.
SYP members shared that Change Mental Health’s presence, while helping to launch the day with insight and energy, “switched everyone on” during the opening session. This came from Ciara Mallon, Engagement Officer for Young People’s Programmes, who, with support from the charity’s Interim Policy & Public Affairs Officer, Carina Bryce, set the tone by tackling stigma and dispelling myths around mental illness and poor mental health.
Following the presentation, Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs) participated in a Dragons’ Den-style role-play, with 45 MSYPs competing to create the most impactful mental health supporting initiative. Packed with innovative ideas and fresh perspectives on mental health support for young people, the morning session left attendees feeling more informed and confident about the topic.
Maya McCrae, MSYP and Sub-Committee Chair said:
“The session was engaging and informative, especially for an early morning session. The icebreaker and role play were fantastic, really thought-provoking on what key stakeholders would say as a comeback to our objectives on improving support for young people in Scotland.”
Change Mental Health provided leaflets with essential information on mental health support to promote ongoing learning. Breakout rooms and quiet spaces were also available for attendees needing time out, ensuring a supportive environment throughout the day.
“The Scottish Youth Parliament has recognised that mental health education should be a priority for all. Increasing mental health training in schools is essential for equipping young people with the knowledge and tools they need to understand and support their wellbeing.
“This campaign will help break down stigma and promote an environment where all young people feel safe and empowered to discuss their mental health.”
Ciara Mallon, Engagement Officer for Young People’s Programmes
Erin Shaw, a young person representing Forces Children Scotland, was visiting Holyrood for the first time. Reflecting on the session, she described it as “helpful and encouraging” and highlighted the positive impact that Change Mental Health’s Bloom programme had on her and her classmates when it was delivered at her school.
SYP CEO Jamie Dunlop expressed his gratitude for Change Mental Health’s participation, underscoring the value of their expertise in supporting the SYP’s goals. He also voiced a desire to continue this connection, seeing it as an essential link between Change Mental Health and the future of Scottish politics.
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