A message to our community from the Council

It is with great sadness that we reflect on the tragic deaths of two young people within our community.

We're sure you will join us in saying that our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all their friends and families at this unimaginably difficult time.

This has been a difficult week for our young people and families, and schools are working with the Education Directorate and partner agencies to ensure steps are taken to support pupils as necessary.   Guidance teams will be available throughout the day and additional support, including counselling and access to our educational psychology team, will be available for the foreseeable future.

Pupils and families who wish to access support whilst on study leave should contact their school directly.

We urge young people that if they are in distress to reach out for help or support.

Please respect the families at this extremely difficult time.

It's not easy to talk about problems and emotions.

Here are some sources of support when you need help, advice or just someone to talk to:

• Breathing Space is Scotland's mental health phone and web chat service for people aged 16 years and over. If you’re in distress or feeling low, stressed or anxious, their specialist advisors will listen and offer advice. Their advisors come from a range of mental health, counselling and social work backgrounds.
  Breathing Space is available to anyone in Scotland over the age of 16, and is open when other support such as family, friends or GPs may be unavailable. You can let them know what's on your mind or ask about helpful resources in your area. Phone open: Weekdays: Mon-Thurs (6pm - 2am) Weekend: Fri 6pm - Mon 6am
• If you're feeling distressed, in a state of despair, suicidal or in need of emotional support you can phone NHS 24 on 111. For an emergency ambulance phone 999.
• YoungMinds Crisis Messenger provides free, confidential, 24/7 crisis support to young people across the UK by text message.
• Childline provide support for young people under 19 struggling with mental health issues, or any other problem. You can phone 0800 1111 to speak to an advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Samaritans Scotland - call free day or night on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
• Those aged 16-31 in Orkney are now able to access the Togetherall online mental health community website for free at www.togetherall.com
• NHS Inform has a wealth of information and guidance available, www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health