SEVENTY young people from five schools in County Derry have taken part in a project to discuss ways of improving their health.

The Health Fare hosted by the Western Education and Library Board’s (WELB) Youth Service was inspired by a group of young people in the Limavady Rural Foyle area to send the message of emotional health and wellbeing to their peers, with the theme ‘Be in control, stay in control and u r in control’. 

The young organisers represented, St Mary’s School, Limavady HS, St Patrick’s HS Dungiven; Limavady Grammar and St Patrick’s & St Brigid’s College Claudy.

Working together they organised an information day highlighting some of the triggers contributing to stress and pressures on young people today such as exams, sexuality, drugs and alcohol, poor self-image and peer pressure. 

A member of the organising committee Zoe Brolly, said: “There are a lot of hidden issues and concerns in young people’s lives and sometimes they are unspoken because of fears of being stereotyped.

“By highlighting the importance of standing up and saying NO to peer pressure; being able to ask for help; socialising and encouraging young people to find a hobby.”   

The event, attended by the Mayor of Limavady Councillor Cathal O hOisin, opened with a creative, inter–active session on health issues facing young people today.

They were then shown a short video of how a young person conquered depression followed by a wonderful rendition of a song ‘The Circle’ which was composed and performed by three young people from Long Tower Youth Club, in memory of their friend who died by suicide.  

Ann McCausland WELB Youth Officer, said: “This is an excellent example of collaborative work between young people and adults, with the aim of improving information and support to young people of the area.

“In particular, the young people on the planning group must be congratulated for having the vision, commitment and courage to undertake and deliver such a challenging and important venture with Youth Service support.”