Young People

Thanks for taking the time to visit Planet Youth in Scotland! The aim of this page is to give you some helpful information about what Planet Youth in Scotland is aiming to do for you, why, and how you are involved in this process.

Planet Youth as an idea originated in Iceland over twenty years ago when people wanted to improve life for young people in the country. But they realised that the only way they could do this properly was by listening to the views of the young people themselves!

As a result of this the young people in Iceland are some of the happiest and healthiest in the world, with more opportunities for social engagement, sports and group hobbies, and quality time with their families. This has all been possible because the young people wanted change and wanted to be heard.

We felt inspired by this idea and wanted to bring it to Scotland, because we want you to feel confident, happy, and know that you are listened to.

Why is Planet Youth in Scotland important to me?

We (and that includes your family, school teachers, and wider community) want to improve your quality of life, and we can only do that if we are listening to your thoughts and making plans to help make a change. It doesn’t happen overnight, but with your valuable input we can start having meaningful conversations about the changes that will make a difference to your life.
How will I involved in Planet Youth in Scotland?

If you are in a school participating in Planet Youth then you’ll be invited to take part in a detailed survey during school-time (usually a double-period lesson), along with everyone else in your year group who is willing to participate (it’s voluntary and you can opt out if you wish). You’ll complete the survey on your own, with privacy and time to think about your answers. Afterwards, listen out for opportunities, at your school or perhaps with other groups in your community, to follow up on what the survey means in terms of improvements for young people.
What kind of questions are you asking me in the survey?

We are looking to get a snapshot into your life, so we will be asking questions about how you spend your free time, relationships, substance use, and your family life. Don't forget that the answers you provide are completely anonymous, so no one will know that they are from you. We encourage you to be as honest and open as possible. The responses we get will really help to improve life for young people and the community.
Is anyone going to know that the survey answers are from me?

No one will know that the survey answers have come from you.
Do I have to take part in the survey?

We encourage everyone to take part in the survey because it is your feedback that is going to help Planet Youth in Scotland, and your local make improvements in your local area. The time and effort you put into completing the survey is really appreciated. However, it is voluntary, and if you are unsure or unhappy about taking part, you can opt out. Just speak to your teacher and they will make arrangements for you.
If I don’t feel comfortable before, during or after the survey what do I do?

Don't hesitate to reach out to your teachers! They will be fully supportive and be able to advise you. We also have some helpful websites and phone numbers below that you can use in complete confidentiality.
What's happening about the great work already underway and the existing survey results?

The approach of Planet Youth can be used alongside existing data that we have! We encourage everyone interested in Planet Youth to consider how using existing information and data can be used with the Planet Youth insights. These insights will enhance and support existing work – the data can support funding applications, supplement existing knowledge, and support changes. Planet Youth works best when it is embedded and woven within what already exists. It is not a replacement or standalone thing, that’s what makes it great!

Helpful Advice

Crew. Free and confidential text service for anyone aged 13-25. Tel: 07860 047 501

Drinkline. Supports people who are worried about their own or someone else’s drinking or drug use. Tel: 0800 7 314 314 (free) (weekdays 9 am – 9pm, weekends 10 am – 4 pm). Webchat function also available.

Know the Score. Whether you’ve taken drugs, are thinking of taking them, or are just curious and want to know more, it’s important to know the real facts about drugs. Tel: 0800 587 5879, Calls are free Mon-Fri 9am-9pm & Sat-Sun 10am-4pm.Webchat, Available Mon-Fri 9am-9pm & Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

NHS 24. Information on all aspects of alcohol, including risks, support for parents, advice for when alcohol is affecting a family and list of support services.

We Are With You. Help and support if you’re worried about someone else’s drinking or drug use.

Young Minds are the UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people's mental health. They want to see a world where no young person feels alone with their mental health, and all young people get the mental health support they need, when they need it, no matter what.

SAMH is Scotland’s national mental health charity. Today, SAMH operates 60 services in communities across Scotland providing mental health social care support, homelessness, addictions, and employment services among others. These services, together with their national programme work in See Me, respectme, suicide prevention and active living; inform our policy and campaign work to influence positive social change.

A.D.A.M: (Another’s drinking affects me) is a website for young people who are concerned about or may be affected by another person’s drinking. The person may be your Mum, Dad, a grandparent, a brother, a sister, or a friend. A.D.A.M has been developed in consultation with young people who have experienced harm because of someone else’s drinking and offers an opportunity to explore IF and HOW you are being affected.

Alateen is for teenage relatives and friends of people who have alcohol problems.020 7407 0215.

Childline. 24 hours free talking helpline and online chat for children up to the age of 18

Quit Your Way Scotland is an advice and support service for anyone trying to stop smoking in Scotland. . You can contact Quit Your Way Scotland for free by phoning a Quit Your Way Scotland advisor on 0800 84 84 84 Chatting online with a Quit Your Way Scotland advisor. The helpline and webchat services are open Mon-Fri, 9.00am to 5.00pm

There are particular considerations for engaging with young people on the topic of vaping. ASH Scotland has produced a briefing to highlight the key evidence, concerns and advice that will benefit anyone working with children and young people.

Call

0131 344 4603

Email

info@planetyouth.scot

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