SCHOOL pupils are being given lessons for the future with the launch of a new health programme across Argyll and Bute.

The health improvement team at the area’s health and social care partnership (HSCP) has launched the project in partnership with a range of organisations.

Youngsters in S3, who are being targeted by the initiative, are set to learn about a range of issues that affect them currently and in the future.

Members of the HSCP’s integration joint board (IJB) were given an update on that and other matters by chief officer Joanna McDonald at its meeting on Wednesday, March 27.

Ms McDonald said: “The programme was initially piloted in 2017, after professionals and young people identified the issues they felt affected Argyll and Bute’s young people.

“The multi-faceted programme includes teacher lesson plans, group workshops, pupil booklets, a powerful drama which tours Argyll and Bute and a Q&A session with local service providers giving pupils the opportunity to address a range of topics affecting young people.

“These included smoking, relationships, sexuality, sexually explicit material, mental health and alcohol.”

Ms MacDonald’s report for the meeting also reported on the successes of recent conferences held by the HSCP on the care service and dealing with adverse childhood experiences.

She also reported on updated HIV training, which is set to be rolled out in Helensburgh, and also in Rothesay.

Ms MacDonald said: “The HSCP and Waverley Care are working in partnership to support people living with or at risk of HIV.

“The HSCP and Waverley Care are both committed to addressing the needs of people living with or affected by HIV.

“Waverley Care has delivered HIV prevention and support services in communities across Argyll and Bute since 2010. Increasing general awareness about HIV is a vital part of this work.”