Say It Out LOUD! Charter success at Cairn Primary & Prestwick Academy

Congratulations to Cairn Primary School and Prestwick Academy for achieving the 'Say It Out LOUD Charter'.

The charter was created by the South Ayrshire Youth Forum to ensure children and young people have a say on mental health and wellbeing actions within their school, something that has become even more relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Youth Forum was impressed with Cairn's Mental Health and Wellbeing Committee, that was created to help drive forward change. The committee, which is made up of children from P1 to P7, played a key role in setting up a hub where children can go if they feel stressed. Pupils can also write down their concerns and put them in 'worry boxes' to get support.

Staff and young people at Prestwick Academy have been doing their bit to promote positive mental health, with some of them becoming Mental Health Mentors. The mentors set up a dedicated section of the school website, which includes links to a range of mental health support sites and services. They also developed interactive videos to highlight difficult issues, such as coping with exam stress and bullying.

The South Ayrshire Youth Forum said: "We're so proud and thankful that Cairn Primary School and Prestwick Academy chose to take part in our charter. Both schools have been amazing and should be proud of what they have achieved, particularly throughout the pandemic. We hope they continue this positive journey and we look forward to working with them again in the future."

Fiona McDougall, Head Teacher at Cairn Primary School said: "I am very proud of all pupils and staff who have been involved in Cairn PS achieving the 'Say It Out LOUD Charter'. As a school, we have a strong focus on promoting mental health and wellbeing and this has been particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. The school community has pulled together to support each other during this difficult time."

Gordon Bone, Head Teacher at Prestwick Academy said: "We are delighted to have achieved the 'Say It Out LOUD Charter'. This is testament to our staff and pupils who have led the way and raised awareness to help support mental health.  As head teacher I am immensely proud of everyone who has been involved throughout this journey."

Councillor William Grant, Children and Young People Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "The Say It Out LOUD Charter was created by young people, for young people and it's going from strength to strength. Now more than ever, those attending our schools need to feel supported and listened to. I would like to congratulate Cairn Primary School and Prestwick Academy for all their hard work, and I hope more schools gain this important charter."

If you are interested and would like to find out more about the Say It Out LOUD Charter or the South Ayrshire Youth Forum, please contact lynn.dillon@south-ayrshire.gov.uk