November was a month full of activities involving not only young people but also our incredible MYPAS staff.
On the 5th, two of our staff were invited to St. David’s High School S6 wellbeing day. The pupils found out more about MYPAS services while taking part in activities that identify risky situations and how to reduce the risks.
(Our brand new MYPAS stress balls were a big hit with all the S6s!)
On the 7th, some of our staff attended the Mental Health Fair for Children and Young People at Penicuik Town Hall. They had a chance to chat to other professionals, showcasing the amazing work done by our workers, and play fun games, like our personalised Conversation Jenga.
Two of our staff from the Drug & Alcohol and the LGBT+ teams attended the Celebrating UNCRC Implementation: Knowledge Exchange and Networking Event at the beautiful Newbattle Abbey College.
At the event, our staff had the opportunity to network and showcase MYPAS’ work, including the new LGBT HIF programme. They liaised with many organisations, such as Y2K and Art Link, and gained insights into work happening across Midlothian, practical examples of how organisations are embedding children’s rights, children and young people’s experiences of making their rights real, and much more.
We also had one of our sessions at a supported homeless accommodation in Dalkeith baking cookies. Through these sessions, our Wellbeing Project Workers support young people to build confidence and develop their independent living skills.
We also had a lunchtime group session at a school in East Lothian with one of our Drug & Alcohol staff where pupils had the chance to learn more about harm reduction practices.
Another exciting activity held by one of our Wellbeing Workers was a peaceful wonder around Edinburgh’s Botanic Gardens, enjoying the rare winter sunshine, boosting their mental wellbeing. Even in the colder months, getting some sun and being close to nature can make a big difference.
For the LGBT+ Social Group, the young people had their first attempt at playing Jackbox games. Facilitated by youth workers, they competed to see who could crack the funniest jokes, and they found out that ‘potato salad’ as an answer beats everything else 100% of the time.
It was a great opportunity for them to try out a new game and showcase their humour to each other!
