Young people from primary schools in Glasgow’s South Side are gathering tomorrow at Toryglen Football Centre to mark World Mental Health Day and develop their understanding about key topics linked to mental health, emotional wellbeing and the benefits of keeping active.
Hosted by Queen’s Park FC Foundation and delivered in partnership with AR26 Charity – founded and led by Scotland Captain and former Queen’s Park player Andy Robertson MBE, and Police Scotland’s National Football Information Point this fun and varied event will allow pupils to participate in an active and engaging learning carousel during the morning, and in the afternoon pose their health, wellbeing, and sporting questions to a panel of notable community role models from the worlds of Health, Education, and Sport.
AR26’s Founder, Andy Robertson MBE:
“Education, engagement, health and wellbeing are crucial elements in supporting tomorrow’s generation into positive pathways and fulfilling futures. Partnership working is key in promoting more positive life experiences for children and young people, hopefully shaping a better future for all.
“This is a team effort, and AR26 is delighted to be channeling positive change in a forward-thinking partnership with Queen’s Park FC Foundation and Police Scotland’s National Football Information Point.”
Queen’s Park FC Foundation General Manager, Chris Priestley:
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to work in partnership with AR26 and Police Scotland to share the important messages of World Mental Health Day.
“Whether it’s at school, at home, or online, young people must be provided the knowledge and skills to safeguard not only their own mental health and emotional wellbeing but also support that of their friends, family, and their community.
“Hopefully Tuesday’s event can break the stigma around seeking help, and normalise speaking about our feelings and checking in on those around us.”
AR26’s Head of Partnerships, Amanda Nisanci:
“Children and young people’s health and wellbeing is at the heart of everything AR26 delivers, and we are delighted to be a part of this partnership event on World Mental Health Day with Queen’s Park FC Foundation and Police Scotland’s National Football Information Point.
“The young people involved are at a critical stage in their development as they prepare to make the significant transition from primary to secondary school and we feel the education and engagement from today’s event will be a positive step in their journey to a happy, healthy and fulfilling future. “
AR26 Programme Manager, Mark Wilson:
‘’I am delighted to be involved in the Healthy Holyrood programme, designed in partnership with Queen’s Park FC Foundation and Police Scotland National Football Information Point to deliver a day tackling some of the issues faced by young people surrounding health and wellbeing.
“Having worked with AR26 Charity for over 2 years, it has allowed me a frontline seat in viewing the challenges young people face on daily basis.
“At AR26, our ethos is to allow every participant the opportunity to an equal start in life, and partnership programmes such as this allows young people a chance to engage with knowledgeable providers who can deliver invaluable experiences that may help to guide them through a transitional period in their life.’’
National Football Information Point Scotland, Police Inspector, Mark Donachie:
“We are delighted to partner with Queen’s Park FC Foundation and AR26 at what promises to be an excellent event. Our Pitchin In Programme uses a proactive educational approach to help build decision making skills and resilience in young people with the aim of reducing harmful behaviour and promoting both individual and community wellbeing.”
