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Public Health
Looking after your health and wellbeing involves taking care of both your physical and mental health. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and building strong social connections. Prioritising self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising, can significantly improve your overall wellbeing.
Doing activities you enjoy can further improve mental and emotional health. With the right information, support and tools you can take the first steps to a healthier lifestyle.
If you are attending one of our hospitals you can access our Support and Information Services. The centres are open to everyone, including patients, carers and family members. The Support and Information services offer support, including listening services, health and lifestyle advice and information about community support groups.
Looking after your health and wellbeing
The below provides information about the Community Health and Wellbeing Hub at your local library, as well as other local services and support available in your area.
We know that life events and circumstances can affect your health and wellbeing. If you need additional support or cant not find what you are looking for, NHS inform provides trusted information and links to services across Scotland, including support for bereavement, grief, domestic abuse and more.
Get Active
Are you looking to become more active?
Keeping physically active is good for your body and mind. Did you know you should be aiming for 150 minutes of moderate activity like walking or cycling or 75 minutes of vigorous activity like running every week or a combination of both moderate and vigorous activity?
Start with walking and get active outdoors
Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your health. It boosts cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles and bones, supports weight management, and can reduce stress and improve mood. Regular walking also helps lower the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
To get started, choose a comfortable pair of shoes, begin with short walks of 10–15 minutes at a pace that feels natural, and gradually increase your time and distance. Aim for consistency, perhaps a daily walk, and consider adding variety by exploring different routes or walking with a friend for motivation.
Or join one of our guided health walks
Everyone can take part in our walks. They’re easy, you don’t need fancy equipment and they won’t cost you a penny. Watch the video below to find out about our health walks.
There’s no need to book a place, simply call 0141 232 1860 and select the Walking option to find out more about your nearest walk.
Strength and Balance
Walking Scotland provide useful advice on strength and balance exercises to help you stay active.
Get Active at home – online fitness videos are a great way to start exercising
Get Active – there’s an app for that! Some tools to help you.
NHS Couch to 5K app
Millions of people have used Couch to 5K to start running. used Couch to 5K to start running.
NHS Active 10 app
Track and build up your daily walks – pop your phone in your pocket and off you go!
Need additional support?
If you’re currently not active and need support to become more active then please go to your health professional and ask for a Live Active referral or call us on 0141 232 1860 and select the Live Active option to discuss with the Live Active team.
Manage your weight
Are you looking to lose weight?
We have the information, resources and tools to help you start your weight loss journey.
Lose weight with NHS Inform Introduction
Dr Ross Shearer is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist specialising in obesity. Here he talks about the journey of losing weight.
Calculate your body mass index (BMI)
Body mass index (BMI) is the most commonly used way to assess whether you have a healthy weight. It uses your height and weight to give you a number.
Start your journey
Download our free, practical guide designed to help get you get started and build the foundations for real and lasting weight loss that you can maintain with simple lifestyle changes.
Stay on track
Reaching and staying a healthy weight isn’t always easy. But small, realistic changes can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing. The NHS Inform Weight Loss site gives you trusted information and practical tips to help you:
- understand your weight
- lose weight safely and keep it off
Need additional support?
If you are overweight have diabetes, heart disease or you have had a stroke, you can self-refer to our Weight Management Service by and filling out the form.
If you are overweight and have other medical conditions, you can speak to your health professional (Nurse, GP, Dietician, or Physiotherapist) about a self-management or referral to the Weight Management Service.
You call the Weight Management Hub on 0141 211 3379 (Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 4.00pm).
Interpreters can be provided.
Stop smoking
Are you looking to stop smoking? Have you ever thought of stopping or tried to stop before?
The most effective way to quit smoking is with specialist support and the use of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) products or stop smoking medication; whether it is your first attempt or you have tried before, we are here to make your quitting journey as successful as possible.
- Studies show you are four times more likely to quit smoking if you do it through a specialist support service such as NHS Quit Your Way
- Local NHS stop smoking services are free and provide one to one support from expert advisers
- Services offer a range of proven methods and medications to help you quit
Your go to for Stop Smoking support
To find out more about what our services can offer call Quit Your Way on 0800 916 8858 or Click to Quit: Find a Stop Smoking Service in your area via Scotland’s Service Directory on NHS Inform:
Take the first steps to Stop Smoking – Quit Your Way
Quit Your Way offers stop-smoking support, including free stop smoking medication, to those who want to stop smoking.
Our team of trained advisors are friendly, knowledgeable and dedicated to supporting you through your quit journey.
Please take a look at the following clip which shows you what to expect.
Support to stop vaping
If you are thinking of stopping vaping, our stop vaping tips for adults leaflet can help you to get started.
What’s next?
To find out more about personalised appointments for face-to-face, telephone or online support, call our team on 0800 916 8858 to get started.
Do you have planned hospital admission?
Stopping smoking before a hospital procedure such as an operation greatly reduces the risks of complications and speeds up recovery. If you would like to stop smoking ahead of a planned admission you can use the postcode search on Scotland’s Service Directory to find our local stop smoking services near you, or simply call our team on 0800 916 8858.
Have you unexpectedly been admitted to hospital?
Please take a look at the following clip which shows you what to expect.
Alcohol and Drugs
Are you worried about alcohol and/or drugs?
Often alcohol and drugs are used as a way of coping with difficult situations and feelings. You can take steps to improve your health and wellbeing by stopping or reducing your alcohol or drug use.
Alcohol
NHS inform has information on drinking sensibly, knowing your limits and getting support for alcohol abuse.
Watch this video and find out if you are drinking too much alcohol.
Some tools and resources to help you
It’s recommended that you don’t drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week. How does your drinking add up? Use this interactive website to find out.
Want to cut down your alcohol consumption? – try the NHS Drink Free Days App
Drugs and drug use
NHS Inform provides important information about the substances you may be taking and how to get support.
Need additional support?
For alcohol and drug addiction problems you can either self-refer directly to the local specialist teams or contact your GP. Crisis services are also available at the Glasgow Alcohol and Drug Crisis Service.
Contact your healthcare professional or use the link below to:
- Find your local service
- Access more information
- Make a self-referral
Promoting mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing describes your mental state – how you are feeling and how well you can cope with day-to-day life. Our mental wellbeing is dynamic. It can change from moment to moment, day to day, month to month or year to year.
MyApp: My Mental health is designed by NHSGGC for people looking for self-guided support for their mental health. You can find information for yourself or if you are worried about someone else.
You’re not alone and there’s support available when you need it. You can download the NHSGGC MyApp: My Mental Health app or visit the MyApp: My Mental Heath website.
Your go to guide to boosting your mental wellbeing – 5 simple tips to help you
Evidence suggests there are 5 steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life.
- Connect – connect with the people around you: your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. Spend time developing these relationships.
- Be active – you don’t have to go to the gym. Take a walk, go cycling or play a game of football. Find the activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your life.
- Keep learning – learning new skills can give you a sense of achievement and new confidence.
- Give to others – even the smallest act can count, whether it’s a smile, a thank you, or a kind word. Larger acts, such as volunteering at your local community centre, can improve your mental wellbeing and help you build new relationships.
- Be mindful – be more aware of the present moment, including your feelings and thoughts, your body, and the world around you. Some people call this awareness “mindfulness”, and it can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges. You can get further ideas here, with tips from Mind’s Five Ways to Wellbeing resource. Also, the Mental Health Foundation has produced a guide: “How to Look After Your Mental Health” which you can download for free. This contains 10 practical areas that you can take action on.
In a crisis or need urgent help?
If things feel overwhelming or you’re worried about someone else, here’s what you can do:
- Call NHS 24 on 111 Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for urgent mental health support and advice.
- Talk to your GP Your GP is a great first point of contact. They can listen, offer guidance, and refer you to local Mental Health Services if needed.
- If you feel you are in immediate danger, please call 999 for assistance
Support for your mental health
Healthy eating
Advice and support to help you eat well
The Eatwell Guide provides information and resources to help you eat a healthy balanced diet.
Eat well everyday – use the meal plan for a healthy balanced diet
Food and nutrition support
Access food and nutrition support in your area along with some helpful resources, hints and tips to help you make healthier choices.
Better sleep
Help yourself to a good night’s sleep
A good night’s sleep is important for your general heath and wellbeing. There are lots of things that you can do to improve your sleep and tackle some of the most common sleep problems.
Watch this video where GP Peter Chrun offers some tips to improve your sleep.
If you are experiencing insomnia or other sleep problems NHS Inform has a useful self-help resource.
Online tools and apps for better sleep
Sleepio is a digital sleep improvement programme based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT.) It’s clinically proven to help address the root causes of poor sleep and insomnia.
Money worries
Support and information if you’re worried about money
A change in personal circumstances such as a change in health status, bereavement, birth of a new child, relationship breakdown or loss of employment can lead to money worries for a person or a household.
Any patients accessing our hospitals can access impartial and confidential help and support from one of our dedicated money advice partnership services.
Watch this video to find out more about our hospital-based money advice services.
Help with hospital travel costs
You may also be entitled to help with the cost of travelling to and from hospital if you receive NHS treatment under the care of a consultant and have a low income or receive certain benefits or credits.
Other sources of support with money worries
Money Advice Scotland believes everyone in debt deserves to be treated fairly. They provide a range of resources for people going through the debt advice process including debt terms explained, help accessing your income and expenditure report, and benefits calculator.
Debt Navigator provides information and advice on how to deal with debts including energy debts; mortgage, rent and council tax arrears; loans, credit cards and overdrafts; car finance and care costs. The website includes a web chat function.
Get creative
Would you like to get creative?
Getting creative and engaging with the arts, whether it’s painting, photography, writing, music, dance, or drama, can have a powerful impact on your health and wellbeing. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing – reduce stress and anxiety
- Social Connection – meet people, reduce isolation and build communities
- Cognitive Benefits – enhanced memory and focus
- Physical Health – improved motor skills and coordination
- Builds confidence – sense of achievement and purpose
Would you like ideas for how to get involved in the arts locally?
Your local authority can provide access to a wide range of arts opportunities via their libraries, museums and community centres
Find out about creative opportunities online
Local and regional activities can be found via simple web searches such as ‘Where’s my nearest community art, dance or singing class”
There are many other organisations that can help you explore creative activities. Here are some ideas:
- Community centres: These often have a variety of classes and are more likely to be local.
- Colleges and universities: They may have continuing education programs or student-led activities that fit your needs.
- Local theatres and arts organisations: Check if there are any local theatres, dance or community groups in your area that offer workshops or lessons
ALISS – A Local Information System for Scotland
You can use ALISS to find health and wellbeing services, groups and activities in your area
Digital support to stay connected
Find out how to stay connected
Being connected, both digitally in the online world and in real life, can have a profound impact on your health, wellbeing, and sense of purpose. Here are some of the benefits:
Digital Connection Benefits
- Access to Information and Support
- Staying in touch
- Community Building
- Empowerment and voice
In-person and community connection benefits
- Improved mental health
- Sense of belonging
- Physical health boost
- Shared activities and learning
Blending both worlds
The most powerful approach often combines both digital and real-world connection. For example:
- Joining a local support group and staying in touch via a WhatsApp group.
- Attending in-person wellbeing event promoted through NHS or community Facebook pages.
- Participating in hybrid events that offer both online and face-to-face options
More information on some sources of support
Community Health and Wellbeing Hubs at your local library
Your Local Library Health and Wellbeing Hub
Every library in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area is more than just books – it’s a welcoming space for everyone to get support for their health and wellbeing. Here are some of the services that you can access when you visit:
- Digital Support – Help with online health services and virtual appointments
- Health and Wellbeing Info – Trusted, easy-to-read resources
- Private Space for Near Me – Secure video consultations
- Staff Support – Guidance to the right health services
- Community Connections – Links to charities and local groups
Libraries
Find out your local library using the links below.
Women’s Health
What is women’s health?
Women’s health covers things like breast and cervical cancer checks, periods, contraception, and pregnancy. It also means keeping healthy by staying active, eating well, not smoking, and looking after your mental health and wellbeing.
The Women’s Health Platform on NHS Inform sets out information on women’s health at key stages of life, from puberty to later years.
Managing your Menstrual Health
Periods – What is normal?
Managing Menopause
Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life and there’s a lot that can be done to help manage symptoms, including making healthy lifestyle choices, trying different treatments and seeking support from healthcare professionals.
Symptom questionnaire
You can use this menopause symptom questionnaire (PDF, 168KB) to keep a note of your symptoms and how you’re feeling. You can print it and talk about it with your healthcare professional to help them understand the different symptoms you’re experiencing.
Looking after your Sexual Health
Good sexual health is more than the absence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and contraception, but these are the foundations for good sexual health.
Find out more about STIs and where to get tested in NHSGGC.
Contraception Choices
Details on the types of contraception available and where to find it in NHSGGC, including Emergency Contraception andFree Condoms.
The Right Contraception for you
Contraception Choices Tool
Use this tool to help make decisions about which contraception might be best for you:
Planning a pregnancy?
Information on planning a pregnancy what to expect during pregnancy and childbirth, including common illnesses and conditions and how to access maternity care in NHSGGC.
Planning for Pregnancy Online Tool
The personalised tool will help you work out where to start with planning a pregnancy and how to get any information or support you might need.
Cancer Screening and Vaccination
Women are offered population-based screening at for key life stages for Breast, Cervical and Bowel cancers. It is important to attend for you screening appointments as early detection can save lives.
What to expect at your breast screening appointment
Breast screening aims to find cancer early so more people survive breast cancer each year.
Cervical Screening
Cervical screening is offered to women and anyone with a cervix who:
- lives in Scotland
- is aged between 25 and 64
What to expect at your cervical screening appointment
If you need additional support
Speak to your GP if you have:
- unusual discharge
- bleeding after sex, between periods or after the menopause
These are usually caused by something other than cancer but it’s important to have them checked.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse is a crime in Scotland. It can happen to anyone and in all types of intimate relationships. It can happen to people of all different genders, sexual orientations, ages, and backgrounds. It is never your fault. Support is available if you are worried about your own relationship, worried about someone else, or unsure whether what is happening is abuse.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If you cannot speak, listen to the operator and follow their instructions. If it is safe to do so, you can also go to a safe place and ask someone you trust for help.
What is domestic abuse?
It can sometimes be hard to see the signs of domestic abuse. You might find it difficult to recognise when something you are experiencing or witnessing is domestic abuse. It does not always include physical violence. It is a pattern of behaviour by a partner or ex-partner that causes harm, whether emotional, sexual, physical, financial or psychological.
Understand the signs of domestic abuse
Additional domestic abuse information
Coercive control or controlling behaviour
Coercive control is when someone uses controlling behaviour to intimidate, threaten or isolate a partner. They may control what their partner does, who they speak to, where to go or what they wear. They may use threats or intimidation to make their partner afraid or humiliated. This is domestic abuse and is against the law.
What is Coercive Control
Scottish Women’s Aid / Scottish Government Video
Scottish Women’s Aid – What is Coercive Control Video – Shona’s Story
Scottish Women’s Aid – What is Coercive Control Video – Amira’s Story
Getting support
You do not need to be sure that something is abuse before asking for support. If something does not feel right, you deserve to be listened to and supported. If you are worried about someone else, you can seek advice without needing to know exactly what to say or do.
- For immediate danger, call 999.
- Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline 0800 027 1234 Text / WhatsApp 07401288595 or email Helpline@sdafmh.org.uk or visit the Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline website.
- Women’s Aid: information and support for women, children and young people affected by domestic abuse – Find your nearest women’s aid group.
- Men’s Advice Line: support for men affected by domestic abuse. Visit the Domestic Abuse Helpline for Men | Men’s Advice Line UK website or call Freephone 0808 8010327
- LGBT Domestic Abuse Scotland: support for LGBT+ people affected by domestic abuse. Voices Unheard – LGBT Youth Scotland
Putting advice into action
Found some advice but not sure where to start, or how to stick to it?
Whether you’re getting ready for appointments or managing your condition on your own just now, making some changes that help us manage our condition and feel our best can be important.
You may have read something in these pages which you would like to try.
Setting a small, realistic goal (even a tiny one!) and making a simple plan for how you’ll do it can make it easier to get started and stay motivated.
It can also help to think about what might get in the way and come up with a few ideas for how you could deal with those challenges.
Where can I find out more?
You can read more about the MAP (Motivation, Action and Prompts) approach to Health Behaviour Change, including a video which outlines the MAP approach.
You can edit and print the MAP planner to help set yourself goals and create a plan to keep you on track.
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Health and Wellbeing Survey 2022/23 Reports
HSCP Reports
Glasgow City
East Renfrewshire
East Dunbartonshire
Inverclyde
Renfrewshire
West Dunbartonshire
Health and Wellbeing Survey Thematic Briefing Papers
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Which Way has been designed to encourage learners to discuss and think more carefully about risk, risk taking behaviours and the decisions they make around them. Through the activities and discussion, learners will consider the factors that influence their decision-making, think about the impact their choices may have and identify where and who they can go to for support for example Glasgow City Youth Health Service. Activities should encourage discussion, peer support and critical thinking.
Introduction
Participating in risk taking behaviours is natural and essential for child and youth development. For most this will be low risk, but for a small number of young people, adolescence can cause harm and impact wellbeing.
Risk behaviours are usually considered individually. It is widely recognised that behaviours often interact and develop as a response to life circumstances. Many risk behaviours tend to cluster together, particularly in young people from the most socio-economically deprived backgrounds. Those young people engaged in multiple risk behaviours are therefore impacted by greater inequalities in health and wellbeing and this poses increasing concern for those who are more vulnerable.
A number of factors have been identified that can protect children and young people or, alternatively, can put them at risk during this stage. These factors relate to different personal and environmental factors, for example personal assets, the community, school, family, peer groups and individual characteristics.
The Which Way curricular pack was originally developed by Glasgow Council on Alcohol (commissioned by Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement) in 2017. The Which Way curricular resource has been reviewed and updated by the Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement team in 2023/24 to reflect up to date data, guidance and policy.
Using the Which Way Curricular Resource
The Which Way curricular resource is made up of ten sessions which each detail a lesson plan and activities. These lessons plans should be used alongside the Resources and Handout document to complete activities. The Glasgow City HWB Education website provides background knowledge and information for educators to carry out these sessions and makes links to other health topics (such as mental health, sexual health etc.). Educators should refer to the Multiple Risk page of the HWB website (linked below) where the information aims to build educators knowledge and confidence in facilitating discussions with young people on multiple risk.
Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) Health Improvement staff have created this HWB Website for all Education staff in Glasgow City. This provides Health Improvement an opportunity to streamline communication, share quality assured resources and create a consistent health and wellbeing offer across the City. It also provides Education staff with an enhanced experience when delivering various aspects of the Curriculum.
At the beginning of each session, educators should discuss safeguarding, confidentiality and respect with learners this discussion may influence a class/group agreement that will support learning and delivery of lessons. Activities can be completed using a smart board/whiteboard or alternatively using flip chart paper and pens.
This resource should be used alongside other quality health and wellbeing curricular resources, all of Health Improvement’s quality assured curricular resources can be found on the Glasgow City HWB Education Website under each topic area. Each learner will have their own experiences and varied understanding of the topics included within Which Way and some of the lessons and activities may be emotive for young people therefore should be approached sensitively. It’s important to provide a safe space for young people to explore emotions that have been brought up. The NHSGGC Healthy Minds resource can be used to facilitate discussions around mental health with children and young people and covers a range topics (e.g. Emotional Literacy).
Young people engaging in multiple risk behaviours that are impacting on their health and wellbeing can seek support from the Glasgow City Youth Health Service which offers confidential, personalised support for young people aged 12-19 years in Glasgow City. Young people can be referred to the Youth Health Service by a Parent, Carer or Professional. Please note there are other services and support organisations available across Glasgow City that offer support to children, young people and families, find more information via Useful Contacts.
Which Way Resource – Primary 7 (P7)
Which Way – Primary 7 (P7) includes four lesson plan documents and one document containing worksheets to support activities within the lesson plans. To support delivery of these lessons and activities, we encourage educators to review the information on Multiple Risk included on the HWB Website.
Which Way Resource – Secondary 2 (S2)
Which Way – Secondary 2 (S2) includes six lesson plan documents and one document containing worksheets to support activities within the lesson plans. To support delivery of these lessons and activities, we encourage educators to review the information on Multiple Risk included on the HWB Website.
Glasgow City HWB Website
Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) Health Improvement staff have created the HWB Website for all Education staff working in Glasgow City. This provides Health Improvement an opportunity to streamline communication, share quality assured resources and create a consistent health and wellbeing offer across the City. It also provides Education staff with an enhanced experience when delivering various aspects of the Curriculum, joining the dots between topic areas and relevant resources and training. The website hosts quality assured information and resources on priority health topics for early years, primary and secondary aged children and young people and is updated every 6 months. The HWB website includes:
- Health Improvement Training Calendar (no cost attached) – Health Improvement courses are no longer featured on CPD manager and should now be booked via the HWB Website.
- Quality assured curricular resources
- Non-curricular resources and publications relevant to priority health topics
- Information on health priorities for children and young people in Glasgow
- Information on services and support for children and young people
- Useful Contact information
Sign up to the HWB Mailing List to receive updates from the Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement Team on any information, resources or training for education staff. Click here to sign up.
Curriculum for Excellence Outline
Please consider the Education Scotland Health and Wellbeing Responsibility for All approach which outlines the following Health and Wellbeing (HWB) organisers:
- Mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing
- Planning for choices and changes
- Physical education, physical activity and sport
- Food and health
- Substance misuse
- Relationships, sexual health and parenthood
The following Experiences and Outcomes can be met by completing Sessions 1-6 of the Which Way Multiple Risk Curricular Resource – Secondary 2.
Health and Wellbeing – Mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing:
- HWB3-01a I am aware of and able to express my feelings and am developing the ability to talk about them.
- HWB 3-02a I know that we all experience a variety of thoughts and emotions that affect how we feel and behave, and I am learning ways of managing them.
- HWB 3-03a I understand that there are people I can talk to and that there are a number of ways in which I can gain access to practical and emotional support to help me and others in a range of circumstances.
- HWB 3-06a I understand the importance of mental health & wellbeing and that this can be fostered and strengthened through personal coping skills and positive relationships. I know that it is not always possible to enjoy good mental health and that if this happens there is support available.
- HWB 3-09a As I explore the rights to which I and others are entitled. I am able to exercise these rights appropriately and accept the responsibilities that go with them. I show respect for the rights of others.
- HWB 3-12a Representing my class, school and/or wider community encourages my self-worth and confidence and allows me to contribute to and participate in society.
- HWB 3-16a I am learning to assess and manage risk, to protect myself and others, and to reduce the potential for harm when possible.
Health and Wellbeing – Substance misuse:
- HWB 3-38a I understand the effect that a range of substances including tobacco and alcohol can have on the body
- HWB 3-39a I know that popular culture, the media and peer groups as well as my own attitudes and values can influence how I feel about substance use and recognise the impact this may have on my actions
- HWB 3-40a I know that alcohol and drugs can affect people’s ability to make decisions.
- HWB 3-41a After assessing options and the consequences of my decisions, I can identify safe and unsafe behaviours and actions.
- HWB 3-42a I know the action I should take in the management of incidents and emergencies related to substance misuse.
- HWB 3-43a I understand the impact that ongoing misuse of substances can have on a person’s health, future life choices and options.
Health and Wellbeing – Relationships, sexual health and parenthood:
- HWB 3-44a I understand the importance of being cared for and caring for others in relationships and can explain why.
- HWB 3-44b I understand and can demonstrate the qualities and skills required to sustain different types of relationships.
Literacy and English – Listening and talking:
- LIT 3-02a When I engage with others, I can make a relevant contribution, encourage others to contribute and acknowledge that they have the right to hold a different opinion. I can respond in ways appropriate to my role and use contributions to reflect on, clarify or adapt thinking.
Literacy and English – Writing
- LIT 3-26a By considering the type of text I am creating, I can independently select ideas and relevant information for different purposes and organise essential information or ideas and any supporting detail in a logical order. I can use suitable vocabulary to communicate effectively with my audience.
Expressive arts – Drama
EXA 3-12a I can create, develop and sustain a realistic or stylised character through the use of voice, movement and language.
Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA)
The information included in this pack has been developed based on current guidance and policy for health and wellbeing of primary school aged children in Glasgow (see Multiple Risk Strategy/Policy Links). However, we recognise that children, classrooms and schools will all have varying needs for learners and adaptations may have to be considered to meet needs. Each session includes links to useful websites which may offer further learning or information to expand on the activities/topics covered or to adapt activities to suit the needs of the learners in the classroom.
Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement have carried out an Equalities Impact Assessment on this curricular pack and have made the following considerations in relation to protected characteristics:
- Age: P7 and S7 age groups are at higher risk of early initiation of risky behaviours and so this resource has been targeted at these stages as an early intervention approach. However, we do recognise that learners may experience this at different ages and stages for a number of reasons and this should be taken into consideration by educators and adapted appropriately.
- Disability: suggestions and amendments have been made throughout the Which Way resource to support the inclusion of learners with a disability in activities as much as possible. This includes consideration of learners who are neurodiverse.
- Gender reassignment: In order to reduce stigma, the curricular pack has used gender neutral names and pronouns throughout the activities.
- Marriage and civil partnership: this characteristic is not identified or explored within the pack.
- Pregnancy and maternity: Which Way makes links to additional quality assured learning and curricular resources (e.g. RSHP) covering topics of sexual health – which can be used as appropriate to support further learning and development around pregnancy and maternity.
- Race: Which Way recognises the influence race may have on learners knowledge, experience and understanding of multiple risk. Educators are encouraged to consider how this might influence at-home learning and to be mindful of the varying experiences within the classroom.
- Religion and belief: Which Way recognises the influence religion and belief may have on learners knowledge, experience and understanding of multiple risk. Educators are encouraged to consider how this might influence at-home learning and to be mindful of the varying experiences within the classroom.
- Sex: this characteristic is not identified or explored within the pack.
- Sexual orientation: Which Way encourages educators to explore further learning around relationships, sexual health and parenthood using the RSHP curricular resource.
- Socio – Economic Status & Social Class: Which Way recognises that socio-economic status and social class influences learners engagement in multiple risk behaviours. Which Way offers a universal approach to education around multiple risk but can be used alongside targeted approaches i.e. CRAFFT
- Other marginalised groups: Which Way recognises the impact multiple risk education may have on other marginalised groups (e.g. learners experiencing addiction at home, young carers, looked after and accommodated children) and educators are encouraged to be mindful of the experiences and circumstances for learners taking part in lessons and activities.
You can find out about the Equality Act (2010) by clicking here and view the Which Way Equality Impact Assessment by clicking here.
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This page provides information about the primary curriculum pack Your Body Matters, which covers the topics of nutrition, physical activity, sustainability and food waste, and body image and self-esteem. If you have any questions about the resource or would like to hear more about it, please contact
What is Your Body Matters?
The Your Body Matters curriculum pack explores the topics of food, nutrition, physical activity, food waste and sustainability and body image and self-esteem, and has recently been reviewed by Health Improvement teams across Greater Glasgow and Clyde alongside education colleagues and health topic experts.
Your Body Matters has been developed and quality assured by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and has undergone an Equalities Impact Assessment. The pack is made up of Teacher Notes, Lesson plans and Activities, for each primary stage which have been mapped to the benchmarks for assessment outlined within the Curriculum for Excellence.
Your Body Matters outlines additional resources for learning and the implementation of a whole school approach to health and wellbeing that can be used to support various learning needs alongside the pack. The pack is a go-to resource for schools in Greater Glasgow and Clyde ready for teachers to select and deliver lessons suited to the needs of their classroom.
Who can use Your Body Matters?
Your Body Matters is available for all staff working across primary education who are delivering lessons on health and wellbeing. Your Body Matters can be adapted by educators based on the requirements of their pupils and classroom. In addition, there are resources which can be used in various school settings including those with supported learning needs across Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
The resource was created and designed with the Greater Glasgow population in mind, however, the information and guidance are transferable to other health boards. We welcome wider use of Your Body Matters and would ask that you acknowledge NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde when using or sharing the resource.
Your Body Matters Curriculum Pack
Introduction, policy context and using the pack
This document outlines the rationale and policy context for the development of the Your Body Matters curriculum pack as well as, the experiences and outcomes included within the Curriculum for Excellence and the benchmarks to support the process of assessment and moderation.
Teacher Notes
The Your Body Matters Teacher Notes provide information and guidance on each topic area to provide educators with knowledge and confidence to deliver each lesson. These notes should be used alongside the lesson plans to support learning.
Lesson Plans
The Your Body Matters Lesson Plans provide suggested activities that support learning on each topic area included within the pack. Each lesson plan has been mapped to the experiences and outcomes outlined within the Curriculum for Excellence to support pupil and classroom assessments. These lesson plans should be used alongside the Teacher Notes and Additional resources and useful website documents linked in the sections above and below.
Additional resources and useful websites
The resources and websites provided will support teaching and learning within the classroom. These cover various topics which are associated with each Lesson Plan and Teachers Notes and aim to support educators to adapt lessons to meet varying learning needs.
The Parent Handout templates covering various topics included within the pack that can help support learning at home. These handouts can be edited for educators to include local information or support or to provide an update on what has been covered in the class.
The References documents collates all of the research and policy used to inform the contents of the pack. This might be useful to support any further exploration or learning on the topics covered within Your Body Matters.
PEPASS
The Your Body Matters curriculum pack should be used alongside PEPASS resources. Please link with your Active Schools Co-ordinator to plan and integrate activities into your teaching.
Communications
The Your Body Matters working group have created a communications pack alongside the Your Body Matters curriculum pack to support ongoing promotion. In this communications pack you will find suggested communications to share with your colleagues, teams and partners including: a power-point presentation, email template, social media text and digital media such as, images, GIF’s and a short promotional video. We would encourage health professionals, educators, HSCP’s and schools to use this resource to promote the Your Body Matters pack and the topics covered.
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The Glasgow City Health Improvement Training Calendar offers online and face to face training on a variety of health priorities and themes. Courses and online learning are facilitated by Glasgow City Heath Improvement or provided by external organisations and are free of charge, offered on a first come first served basis. These courses are aimed at practitioners supporting people and communities across the life span in Glasgow City.
Please see information below on the courses offered and upcoming dates. You can book a place using the links provided. There is demand for spaces and we operate a short waiting list for each course. We kindly ask that if you do book a place and can no longer make it, please let us know as soon as possible so that your place can be offered to someone else. For all queries or to contact the team please email: ggc.northeast.youthhealth@nhs.scot
Education staff: We welcome education staff working in Glasgow City to attend any of our training courses outlined below. We would like to encourage you to access additional information, resources and training specific to education staff working in Glasgow City on our Education Health and Wellbeing Website. The content on the website has been quality assured by our Glasgow City Health Improvement Team and has been developed for Early Years, Primary and Secondary establishments.
Equalities and Human Rights
Please see below upcoming dates for Equalities and Human Rights Training Courses delivered by Glasgow City Health Improvement.
Equally Safe Young People Training
Upcoming Dates:
2nd September 2026, 09:30am-12:30pm, Parkhead Hub. Book a place.
3rd November 2026, 09:30am-12:30pm, Parkhead Hub. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- This 3 hour training course aims to
- Equip youth work staff with the knowledge and understanding of the underlying causes of gender based violence.
- Increase understanding of and confidence in preventing and addressing abuse within young people’s intimate relationships.
- Promote the use of the Guidelines for responding to Gender Based Violence in a Youth Setting by youth workers.
Learning Outcomes
Increased knowledge and understanding of
- The effects of gender stereotyping on young people
- The signs and effects of abuse within young people’s intimate relationships
- Increased confidence in talking with young people about the issues of relationship abuse and exploitation
- Increased knowledge and understanding of the Guideline for Responding to Gender Based Violence in Youth Work Settings
- Be able to use the Guideline for Responding to Gender Based Violence in Youth Work Settings to support young people when needed
Level: Informed
Inequality, Equity and Social Justice
Please note, this course takes place over two half days. Participants must be able to attend both dates to secure a place. These sessions are part of the Health Issues in the Community training course.
Upcoming Dates:
Tuesday 8th and Tuesday 15th September 2026, 09:30am-12:30pm, Langside College. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- To explore the idea of relative poverty and its link to social justice.
Learning Outcomes:
- Introduce key aspects of the determinants of health; poverty, inequality and social class.
- Broaden participants’ understanding of different groups’ experiences of inequality.
- Enable participants to develop a basic understanding of social inclusion and social justice.
- Whilst the course has a specific view on young people, it would be beneficial to anyone with an interest in equality and social justice and how it impacts on communities.
Level: Informed
The impact of caring: responding to the needs of parents caring for a child with additional support needs
Upcoming Dates:
Wednesday 23rd September 2026, 3:30-5pm, Clarice Pears, 90 Byres Rd, G12 8TB. Book a place.
Monday 5th October 2026, 3.30-5pm, St. Albert’s Primary School, 36 Maxwell Drive, G41 5DU . Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- The session provides an insight into the lived experience of parents caring for a disabled child or child with additional support needs whilst also providing participants with information on supports available for families.
Learning Outcomes:
- Develop participants understanding of the parenting experience when caring for a disabled child or child with additional support needs including autism.
- Broaden participants understanding of parent carer’s experience of inequality.
- Enhance knowledge of how best to support families and where to signpost for further support, information and advice.
Level: Informed
Food and Nutrition
Please see below upcoming dates for Food and Nutrition Training Courses delivered by Glasgow City Health Improvement and partners.
Healthy Eating and Nutrition
Upcoming dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please keep an eye on this page for new dates being added.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- To increase understanding and highlight importance of the current healthy eating recommendations, and guidelines, through the Eatwell Guide.
Learning outcomes:
- This session aims to introduce you to key health issues related to nutrition, and Scottish Dietary Goals;
- To increase your knowledge and understanding of healthy eating, using the Eatwell Guide and what’s behind the food group segments.
- To introduce, and better understand reputable sources of nutrition information and available resources.
Level: Informed
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Please see below upcoming dates for Mental Health and Wellbeing learning opportunities in Glasgow City.
In addition, training courses offered in relation to Substance Use also cover the topic of mental health, wellbeing and stigma. These courses are listed in the ‘Substance Use’ tabe below.
Healthy Minds
Healthy Minds is a universal resource which aims to promote basic awareness and understanding of mental health and topics that are associated with and can impact on mental health and wellbeing. It is a cascading and capacity building resource that aims to support partners and organisations deliver on the public mental health agenda. The focus of Healthy Minds is prevention and early intervention.
The resource is aimed at anyone who has an interest in raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing. You don’t need any prior experience or qualifications to deliver any of the sessions. However, if you would like some support and an overview of the Healthy Minds pack to help you plan and deliver these sessions, please get in touch with our team. Email: ggc.northeast.youthhealth@nhs.scot
Use the button below to find out more and browse the Healthy Minds Resource collection.
Mental Health and Wellbeing across the life course – Free e-learning
The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Mental Health Improvement Team have collated a range of free online learning opportunities relating to Mental Health. We have laid these out in a life course approach. This list is not an endorsement but rather a snapshot of learning resources that are out there. We encourage learners to be curious but stay critical. The training highlighted will be in general at the informed and skilled levels of the Mental Health Improvement and Suicide Prevention Framework.
Mental Health Improvement, Self-harm and Suicide Prevention Training Pathway
The pathway is a tool to encourage anyone with an interest in mental health improvement to progressively build their knowledge and skills relevant to their role and responsibilities in the area of mental health. The resource is not a training calendar but rather a reference and guidance document to help individuals, teams and organisations explore potential training opportunities that are available, and whilst not exhaustive it can support navigation through the relevant and appropriate levels according to roles.
*Please note that to access some learning opportunities in the training pathway you will need to register with TURAS Learn but
anyone with an email address, no matter what their location or role is, can register free of charge. To register go to
https://learn.nes.nhs.scot/
Visit the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Mental Health Improvement Team website to access a range of free downloadable resources and information.
Online Harms – Free e-learning module
A free e-learning module that helps staff gain knowledge and resources around online safety concerns and understand how they can assist those they support in dealing with these issues and minimising their potential harm. Available via Turas for anyone with an email address. Please note that a Turas account is required, you can create an account here.
Suicide Prevention
Please see below upcoming dates for Suicide Prevention training and self-directed learning opportunities in Glasgow City.
Ask, Tell, Respond – Suicide Prevention Digital Resources
The ‘Ask, Tell Respond’ free digital learning resources have been developed in collaboration with Public Health Scotland and NHS Education for Scotland (NES) and further developed in partnership with local boards/organisations and people with lived experience. The resources include short animations, interactive e-learning modules, and facilitation packages designed to build confidence in having supportive conversations about mental health, self-harm, and suicide prevention.
In order to access these learning resources please login or create a TURAS account. You can create an account at https://learn.nes.nhs.scot/
Suicide Prevention Training – ASIST, SuicideTALK and SafeTALK
Glasgow City is part of the national suicide prevention programme and action plan, to reduce and prevent suicide in Scotland. The training promoted in Glasgow is SafeTALK, ASIST and SuicideTALK. Further information, upcoming dates and details on how to book suicide prevention training can be found via the Living Works Suicide Prevention Training Calendar linked below.
Scottish Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) – Adult
Please note this is a 2-day training course and participants must be able to attend both days to secure a place.
Upcoming dates:
Monday 14th & Monday 21st Sept 2026 – 9:00am – 4:30pm both days . Parkhead Hub, 1251 Duke Street, Glasgow, G31 5PZ. Book a Place
Monday 30th November & Monday 7th December 2026 – 9:00am – 4:30pm both days . Parkhead Hub, 1251 Duke Street, Glasgow, G31 5PZ. Book a Place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- To preserve life
- To provide help to prevent a mental health problem or crisis developing
- To promote recovery and wellbeing
- To provide comfort to a person experiencing distress
- To promote understanding of mental health issues
The Course will support you in learning more about:
- How to apply to 5 steps of SMHFA
- How to respond if you believe someone is at risk of suicide
- How to give immediate help until professional help is available
- What to do and say in a crisis
- The importance of good listening skills, practice listening and responding
- Understanding recovery, the connection between mental health problems and alcohol and drugs, mental health problems and discrimination
- Some basic information about common mental health problems and self-help information
Level: Skilled
Scottish Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) – Young People
We’re sorry, there are currently no upcoming dates scheduled for this course. You can find additional learning opportunities around suicide prevention using the buttons below.
Suicide Contagion
Upcoming dates:
Wednesday 2nd September 2026, 9.30am – 12noon, Glasgow Clyde College Anniesland Campus 19 Hatfield Dr, Glasgow G12 0YE, Book a place
Wednesday 2nd December 2026, 10am-12:30, MS Teams. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- To increase participants’ awareness of the multi-agency approach to suicide prevention across the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Board area
Learning outcomes/objectives:
Increased understanding of;
- The current data around suicide, particularly around age and gender.
- Some of the factors that can contribute to people taking their own life, or attempting to take their own life.
- The impact that different forms of media can have on rates of suicide attempts and deaths by suicide.
- The risks associated with irresponsible reporting of suicide in the media.
Level: Informed
Self-harm
Please see below upcoming dates for training and self-directed learning opportunities related to self-harm in Glasgow City.
What’s the Harm: Self-harm Awareness (1 hour)
Upcoming dates:
Thursday 1st October 2026, 2-3pm, MS Teams. Book a place.
Thursday 10th December 2026, 10-11am, MS Teams. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- To increase participants’ understanding of self-harm when used as a coping strategy
Learning outcomes/objectives:
- Introduce and develop your understanding of self-harm
- Gain access to resources to support those using self-harm as a coping strategy
- Information on skilled level training to support self-harm awareness and skills development
Level: Informed
What’s the Harm: Self-harm awareness and skills training (1-day)
Upcoming dates:
Thursday 17th September 2026, 9am-4:30pm, Parkhead Hub, 1251 Duke Street, Glasgow, G315NZ. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- This 1-day training course aims to help dispel the myths about self-harm and equip participants to support people who may use self-harm as a coping strategy. The focus of the training is self-harm when used as a coping strategy and where the individual has no intention to end their life.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
At the end of the programme, participants will be able to:
- State a definition of self-harm, which recognises that it is predominantly a coping strategy.
- Describe the difference between self-harm and suicide.
- Discuss the spectrum of self-harm behaviour.
- Describe the emotional, social and physiological factors that may underlie self-harming behaviours.
- Reflect on your own feelings and reactions to self-harm and how these can impact on interventions.
- Describe a range of appropriate and safe responses/interventions, including harm reduction.
- Discuss issues which impact on working with self-harm within the context of your own workplace/ role.
- Access a range of self-harm resources to support practice.
Level: Skilled
What’s the Harm: Self-harm awareness and skills – Training for Trainers
The What’s the Harm? Training for Trainers (T4T) course is a three-day programme is designed to prepare participants to deliver the 1-day What’s the Harm? Self-Harm Awareness & Skills course. The aim of this course is to familiarise future trainers with the full content and structure of the 1-day WTH training, while building confidence and competence in delivering it effectively.
If you are interested in completing the 3-day Training for Trainers course, please get in touch with our team: northeastyouth@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
Substance Use (including Vaping)
Some of the courses below are delivered by our partners The Scottish Drugs Forum (SDF) and are commissioned by Glasgow City HSCP. Some of these courses explore the topic of mental health. Further learning opportunities on mental health, suicide prevention and self-harm can be found in the tabs above.
SDF also offer a range of e-learning courses that may be of interest. Click here for more information.
Alcohol Awareness
Upcoming Dates:
30th July 2026, 9:15am-1:30pm, MS Teams. Book a place.
11th August 2026, 9:15am-1:30pm, MS Teams. Book a place.
3rd September 2026, 9:15am-1:30pm, MS Teams. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This online training aims to increase knowledge and awareness of the key issues relating to alcohol use in Scotland. Participants will have the opportunity to consider harm reduction and support strategies.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
By the end of the session participants will be able to:
- Discuss the prevalence of alcohol use in Scotland.
- Recall the unit content for common drinks and low risk drinking guidelines.
- Identify a range of reasons why people use alcohol.
- Discuss the effects and costs of alcohol use associated with different patterns of drinking.
- Recall key resources and support services available to reduce alcohol-related harm.
Benzodiazepine Awareness
Upcoming Dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please check the Scottish Drugs Forum website for additional dates.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This facilitator led course will explore the key issues relating to benzodiazepines including street and unlicensed use in Scotland. Identifying the effects and impacts and effective strategies and techniques for working with people who use benzodiazepines.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
- Recall the current and emerging trends with benzodiazepines including street and unlicensed benzodiazepines
- Identify the physical, psychological and social effects of benzodiazepines
- Understand the effective strategies and techniques for working with people who use benzodiazepines including harm reduction
Cannabis Awareness
Upcoming Dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please check the Scottish Drugs Forum website for additional dates.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This training aims to increase awareness, knowledge and provides an opportunity to explore current and emerging trends in cannabis use. Harm reduction and support strategies will be explored.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
- Recall effective techniques for working with cannabis users including harm reduction.
- Give an overview of the current trends with cannabis including synthetic cannabinoids.
- Recall the main effects and side effects of cannabis.
- Identify the typical presenting issues for problematic cannabis use.
- Identify treatment options for dependent cannabis users.
Cocaine and Psychostimulants
Upcoming Dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please check the Scottish Drugs Forum website for additional dates.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This training aims to increase awareness, knowledge and provides an opportunity to explore current and emerging trends with psychostimulants. Harm reduction and support strategies will be explored.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
By the end of the session participants will be able to:
- Discuss the current and emerging trends with psychostimulants.
- Discuss the key psychostimulants in use including cocaine, amphetamines and MDMA.
- Identify effective strategies for working with people who use psychostimulants including harm reduction.
CRAFFT Screening Tool Training
CRAFFT training is now delivered directly by Glasgow City Health Improvement Team. To ensure the tool is embedded safely and effectively, this training is not open-access and is instead offered to practitioners in roles where CRAFFT can be used as part of ongoing practice. If you feel this training is relevant to your role, please contact the Health Improvement team to discuss suitability and availability – ggc.northwest.youthhealth@nhs.scot
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This training opportunity for trusted adults who engage with young people to develop their knowledge and skills to effectively engage in one-to-one early intervention conversations about alcohol and drug use. The training and screening tool will help to identify young people who may benefit from a brief intervention and if needed, a motivational discussion about their alcohol and drug use.
Pre-training requirements
Participants are expected to:
- Work directly with young people aged 12–17 within Glasgow City
- Have prior knowledge of substance use and multiple risk (e.g. SDF Multiple Risk and Young People training or equivalent)
- Be able to access and use the CRAFFT app via a digital device
- Engage with the Health Improvement team to support implementation, data collection and evaluation
Drug Awareness
Upcoming Dates:
25th August 2026, 9:30am-4:30pm, in-person (venue TBC). Book a place.
29th September 2026, 9:30am-4:30pm, Byres Road Community Hub, 90 Byres Road, G12 8TB. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
The training aims to increase workers’ drug awareness knowledge and provide an opportunity to explore current and emerging trends with substance use.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
By the end of the session participants will be able to:
- Name the seven key drug categories and their key effects
- Recall an overview of the key substances in use
- Identify the reasons why people choose to use drugs and alcohol
- Recall poly-drug use and dependant substance use patterns
- Describe signs of overdose and how to respond
- Identify effective techniques to support people who use drugs and alcohol.
Ketamine Awareness
Upcoming Dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please check the Scottish Drugs Forum website for additional dates.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This in-person training aims to increase knowledge of the current and emerging trends in ketamine use. Participants will be able to identify physical and psychological effects and recognise the wider impact of ketamine use. Participants will gain an awareness of harm reduction, support strategies and signposting.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
- Understand effective strategies and techniques for supporting someone who is using Ketamine including harm reduction.
- Recall the current and emerging ketamine trends.
- Identify the physical and psychological effects and recognise the wider impact of ketamine.
- Understand the impact of poly drug use
Mental Health and Substance Use
Upcoming Dates:
18th August 2026, 10:30am-4:30pm, Parkhead Hub, 1251 Duke Street, Glasgow, G31 5NZ. Book a place.
24th September 2026, 9:30am-4:30pm, Parkhead Hub, 1251 Duke Street, Glasgow, G31 5NZ. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This facilitator led course will increase knowledge and awareness of key issues relating to supporting mental health and substance use in Scotland.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
- Recall the prevalence of people with co-existing substance use and mental health issues
- Describe the relationship between mental health and substance use
- Gain an overview of common mental health conditions
- Identify the impact of stigma in relation to drug use and mental health
- Identify how to support and signpost people affected by mental health and substance use
- Understand the importance of self-care when working in a support setting
Level: Informed
Multiple Risk and Young People
Upcoming Dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please check the Scottish Drugs Forum website for additional dates.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This online training aims to increase awareness, knowledge of multiple risk and young people. Participants will have the opportunity to explore multiple risk and what that means in practice when working with young people.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
- Demonstrate effective signposting and interventions which tackle multiple risk, build resilience, and support post-traumatic growth.
- Identify common risk behaviours displayed by young people.
- Define multiple risk.
- Discuss positive and negative aspects of risk.
- Identify common risk behaviours.
- Recall the factors and Adverse Childhood Experiences that influence risk taking and identify the impact of these on resilience.
Trauma and Substance Use
Upcoming Dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please check the Scottish Drugs Forum website for additional dates.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This course will support trauma-informed practice when working with people who are affected by trauma and who use substances.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
By the end of the session participants will be able to:
- Define the concept of psychological trauma
- Describe how substance use is used as an adaptive coping response to trauma and its impact
- Identify how to respond to the needs of those affected by trauma at a trauma-informed level
Level: Skilled
Understanding Stigma: Promoting Inclusive Attitudes and Practice
Upcoming Dates:
5th August 2026, 9:30am-4:30pm, Parkhead Hub, 1251 Duke Street, Glasgow, G31 5NZ. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This facilitator led course will give participants a distinct set of knowledge and skills to help them understand and address alcohol and drug-related stigma.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
By the end of the session participants will be able to:
- Describe the impact of stigma on people who use substances, people in treatment or in recovery from substance use
- Recall language which de-stigmatises people affected by substance use
- Describe how stigma and discrimination impact on the quality and effectiveness of service delivery
- Identify institutional and structural stigma attached to people who use substances, people in treatment or in recovery from substance use.
Level: Informed
Vaping and Young People: Awareness Raising Session
This course is delivered by the Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement Team.
Upcoming Dates:
8th October 2026, 1am-12pm, MS Teams. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This awareness session is aimed at parents, carers and staff who work with young people within our communities.
Learning outcomes/objectives:
Attendees will have an increased knowledge and understanding of:
- Up-to-date information on vapes and their use amongst young people.
- Health and environmental impacts of vapes and increased confidence in discussing these with young people
- Further information and resources
Level: Informed
Poverty
Please see below upcoming dates for Poverty Training Courses delivered by Glasgow City Health Improvement.
Poverty Awareness
Upcoming dates:
Thursday 10th September 2026, 10am-12noon, MS Teams. Book a place.
Wednesday 9th December 2026, 10am-12noon, MS Teams. Book a place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- This short session will explore the causes and impact of poverty. It will raise awareness of resources and supports available and support attendees to identify actions to consider poverty sensitive practice in the work you are involved in.
Learning outcomes:
The outcomes of the session is to have an increased awareness of :
- What poverty is.
- Who is affected.
- What support is available.
Level: Informed
Energy Awareness Session
Upcoming dates:
Thursday 10th September 2026, 1:30-2:30pm, MS Teams. Book a place.
Tuesday 27th October 2026, 10am-12noon, MS Teams, Book a place
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- This short, interactive session will explore the key factors that contribute to heat loss in the home and the health impacts of living in cold conditions – particularly for vulnerable groups. It will also raise awareness of practical ways to reduce heat loss, save energy and money, and access support to manage energy costs.
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Identify common sources of heat loss in the home and understand how to reduce them.
- Recognise the health risks associated with cold homes, especially for vulnerable populations.
- Apply simple strategies to save energy and reduce household costs.
- Understand how to manage and reduce condensation effectively.
- Access information about available resources and support to help with energy bills
Level: Informed
Understanding your Energy Bills Workshop
Upcoming dates:
Sorry, we don’t have any upcoming dates available at the moment. Please keep an eye on this page for new dates being added.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
This 2hr interactive workshop will help you understand your energy bills and learn how to provide more accurate meter readings, so you only pay for what you use. Explore different payment methods and discover how to switch suppliers.
We will look at ways to reduce your energy usage by review the running costs of some common electrical appliances and look at information on the support available to help manage energy costs.
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the session, participants will be more confident in:
- Understanding energy bills including: Reading energy meters, Exploring payment options, Switching energy suppliers
- Understanding the running costs of electrical
- Finding available support
Level: Informed
Promoting Healthier Lives
Please see below upcoming dates for Training Courses that Promote Healthier Lives, delivered by Glasgow City Health Improvement.
Introduction to MAP Health Behaviour Change Learning Programme
Upcoming dates:
2nd September 2026, 10-11am, MS Teams. Book a Place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
The MAP of Health Behaviour Change Learning Programme aims to equip all Health, Care and 3rd Sector staff with the knowledge, skills and confidence to talk to people about behaviour change. Using theory- based interventions which are person-centred and will promote positive health and wellbeing outcomes.
Learning outcomes:
After completing the Introduction session, learners will be able to:
- Understand the main principles for an effective behaviour change conversation
- Recognise the main components of MAP (motivation, action and prompts) and its importance in supporting people to make successful changes
- Gain experience in using some of the evidence-based behaviour change techniques to support behaviour change
- Consider the techniques and use of the skills as applied to you and/or your area of work
Level: Informed
MAP of Health Behaviour Change Learning Programme
Upcoming dates:
4th November 2026, 9:30am-4pm, Parkhead Hub, 1251 Duke Street, Glasgow, G31 5PZ. Book a Place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- To increase knowledge, skills and confidence in supporting behaviour change.
Learning outcomes:
After completing the Learning Programme, learners will be able to:
- Use the MAP model to structure consultations with people about changing their behaviour
- Use evidence-based Behaviour Change Techniques according to a minimum specified standard
- Adapt responses and techniques used based on the person’s context
- Use the MAP model to support the integration of these skills into their own practice.
Level: Informed
Sexual Health and Relationships training for Youth Workers
This is a one day, face to face course for Youth Workers in Greater Glasgow and Clyde who are working with young people aged 13+.
Upcoming dates:
26th August 2026, 2026, 9:30am-4pm, The Robertson Trust, Conference Room, Robertson House, 152 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4TB. Book a Place.
Course aims and learning outcomes
Aims:
- To build the skills and confidence of youth workers to support young people’s sexual health and well-being
Learning outcomes:
After completing the Learning Programme, learners will be able to:
- Understand the social factors that influence young people’s sexual health and well-being
- Feel able to discuss the impact of online pornography with young people
- Have an up to date understanding of the law as it relates to young people, sexual activity and sexual offences
- Feel confident to use a range of resources and approaches to help young people communicate around sex and consent
- Know why discussions about condom and contraception use are important in 2026 and how to do this
Level: Informed
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The Glasgow City Child and Youth Health Improvement Team works across the North East, North West and South localities to improve the health and wellbeing of children, young people and their families. Our team delivers evidence‑based programmes, resources and works in collaboration with a range of partners across the city to support prevention and early intervention approaches to health improvement.
Our work is guided by Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement Strategic Direction 2023 to 2028 which outlines key health priorities for health improvement in Glasgow.
This web page hosts a range of helpful information and resources from the Health Improvement Team. This page works alongside our HWB Website which aims to streamline our communication, share quality assured materials and create a consistent health and wellbeing offer to professional supporting children and young people in Glasgow.
Resources and Toolkits
Children and Young People Mental Health Support Guide – Glasgow City: This is a guide to support statutory and third sector professionals to refer children and young people to mental health and wellbeing supports and services that are appropriate to their needs and that can be accessed relatively quickly and easily.
Mental Health Support Services Poster – This poster contains details of a range of mental health supports that are available across Glasgow City.
Gender Based Violence Resources: Glasgow City Health Improvement have developed a range of Gender Based Violence resources for School and Youth/Community setting use.
Screen Time Resource – Be Screen Smart: The Be Screen Smart resource aims to raise awareness of the benefits of reduced screen time.
Trauma Informed Toolkit: The toolkit aims to spark conversations on supporting children and young people in Glasgow affected by childhood adversity and trauma. It promotes trauma-informed practice across organisations and offers background on ACEs, trauma, and resilience, along with local resources and supports.
Which Way Multiple Risk Curricular Resources: Which Way has been designed to encourage learners to discuss and think more carefully about risk, risk taking behaviours and the decisions they make around them. Activities should encourage discussion, peer support and critical thinking.
Services
The following health improvement services are delivered across Glasgow City:
Glasgow City Youth Health Service offers confidential, personalised support for young people aged 12-19 years in Glasgow City.
Sandyford runs dedicated clinics for 13 – 17-year-olds, offering support on sexual health, contraception and STI prevention.
Quit Your Way stop smoking services offer free information, advice and support, including nicotine replacement therapy, to those who want to stop smoking.
In addition you can access Useful Contacts via The Glasgow City Health and Wellbeing Website, which contains links to a range of services and services directories in Glasgow City.
Training Calendar
The Glasgow City Health Improvement Training Calendar offers online and face to face training on a variety of health priorities and themes. Courses and online learning are facilitated by Glasgow City Heath Improvement or provided by external organisations and are free of charge, offered on a first come first served basis. These courses are aimed at practitioners supporting people and communities across the life span in Glasgow City.
Annual Report
The Glasgow City Child and Youth Health Improvement 2024/25 Annual Report is a key document that highlights the extensive efforts of our team. It offers a thorough overview of our ongoing dedication to Health Improvement principles and highlights where we are working together to build a healthier, more equitable future for Glasgow’s children, young people, and families.
The Glasgow City Health Improvement Annual Report 2024/25 details key developments and accomplishments over the year, demonstrating how our wider Health Improvement team has continued to advance health and wellbeing, address health inequalities and enhance support for individuals and communities across the city.
Partnership work
You can find information on Locality Youth Network Meetings and Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Networks via the Glasgow City Health and Wellbeing Website.
Some examples of partnership work developed through our various networks can be found below.
A community health walk and wellbeing event in was held in Pollok during Mental Health Awareness Week 2025. It centred on the theme of community, connection and support and aimed to bring together local community members and staff to promote mental health and wellbeing through shared activity and connection. Click here to read the report.
Time to Talk Day is the UK’s biggest mental health conversation, aimed at breaking stigma and encouraging open dialogue. This year in North East Glasgow, Health Improvement staff supported local conversations through small grants, enabling 20 community groups to host inclusive wellbeing events. To share these powerful stories, East End Community Radio produced Let’s Talk—a six-episode podcast series highlighting the impact across the community.
Episode 1: Chloe introduces the podcast and explains how Health Improvement supports mental wellbeing in the community. Stuart then chats with our first guest, Barbara, who shares her experience working in mental health across Glasgow. She highlights key local services and offers a simple, helpful tip for staying mentally well.
Episode 2: Kerry introduces the East Centre, Calton & Dennistoun Hubcap and shares how they marked Time to Talk Day with a wellbeing activity focused on staff mental health. She reflects on what participants enjoyed, why it mattered, and offers a practical tip for supporting positive mental health. We also hear from five local organisations — BCLC, Bluevale, Cranhill Development Trust, Calvay Centre, and Whiterose — as they share how they got involved, the impact of their activities, and how they continue to promote mental wellbeing in their communities.
Episode 3: Claire introduces her North East Hubcap and shares how they supported staff wellbeing through a Time to Talk activity, reflecting on what made it meaningful and offering a practical mental health tip. This episode also features voices from Easterhouse Baptist Church, Easterhouse Sports Centre, Denmilne Community Action Group, The Glenburn, and Pavilion, as they discuss their Time to Talk Day events, the impact on their communities, and how they continue to champion mental wellbeing in their everyday work.
Episode 4: Christine introduces the Springburn and Robroyston Hubcap and shares how their Time to Talk activity supported staff wellbeing, highlighting what made it meaningful and offering a practical mental health tip. This episode also features BCDC, North East Recovery Café (NERC), Royston Youth Action, and Beatroute Arts, as they reflect on their Time to Talk Day events, the impact on their communities, and how they continue to promote open conversations around mental health. While not featured in the episode, Brunswick also took part in the initiative.
Episode 5: Siobhan introduces the Shettleston and Baillieston Hubcap and shares how their Time to Talk activity supported staff wellbeing, highlighting what participants enjoyed and offering a practical tip for positive mental health. This episode also features With Kids, Halliday Foundation, St Paul’s Community Hub, Fuse, and Shettleston Growing, as they reflect on their Time to Talk Day events, the impact on their communities, and how they continue to encourage open conversations around mental health.
Episode 6: Ann and Michelle reflect on the importance of mental health conversations and the resources available to support communities in North East Glasgow. Ann shares insights from her role, including the delivery of Scottish Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) training, while Michelle highlights key resources from the Mental Health Board Team available on the NHS GGC website (Mental Health Improvement – NHSGGC). Both offer practical tips for maintaining positive mental wellbeing. Stuart closes the series by thanking listeners and celebrating the breadth of work delivered across the North East for Time to Talk.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the organisations, partners, and community members who generously shared their time, voices, and expertise during the Time to Talk Week of Action and podcast series. Your valued collaboration is deeply appreciated and plays a vital role in bringing important mental health conversations to life.
Thank you to: East End Community Radio, Cranhill Development Trust, Beatroute Arts, North East Recovery Community, Whiterose Community Hall, Bridgeton Community Learning Campus, Calvay Housing Association Ltd, St Paul’s Community Hub – Shettleston, Easterhouse Sports Centre, Easterhouse Baptist Church, Denmilne Community Hub & Garden, Fuse, Shettleston Community Growing Project, With Kids, The Halliday Foundation, Bluevale Community Club, The Pavillion, Royston Youth Action, BCDC, The Glenburn Centre, Brunswick Community Development Trust
Your Voice ran from 2019 to 2025 and was delivered by the North West Youth Network across North West Glasgow. It worked with over 30 partner organisations and involved hundreds of young people across six events.
Young people shared what matters most to them, including mental health, feeling safe, poverty, substance use, vaping, and the need for safe places and positive activities. Each event offered fun activities like sport and creative sessions, alongside chances to speak directly with services and decision makers. What young people said was listened to and used to shape future events.
In 2025, the programme introduced a youth‑led grant fund, giving young people real power to decide how money was spent. Over £6,400 was awarded to local projects chosen by young people themselves, showing the programme’s commitment to youth voice and community wellbeing.
For more information on Your Voice or the North West Youth Network, you can contact us via ggc.northwest.youthhealth@nhs.scot
Contact the team
For enquiries related to the Education HWB Website or to contact the Glasgow City Health Improvement team, please contact: ggc.educationhwb@nhs.scot
To reach out to your Locality Health Improvement Team (Child and Youth), please contact:
North-East Team – ggc.northeast.youthhealth@nhs.scot
North-West Team – ggc.northwest.youthhealth@nhs.scot
South Team – ggc.southyouthhi@nhs.scot
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For all local NHSGGC and HSCP health and wellbeing service information you should now visit:
Accessing core NHSGGC health improvement programmes and services
Are you looking to become more active?
Self-help
Keeping physically active is good for your body and mind. Did you know you should be aiming for 150 minutes a of moderate activity like walking or cycling or 75 minutes of vigorous activity like running every week? Every minute counts so if you want to get more active….
For information on the health benefits of exercise and ideas on how to keep active visit:
Apps to help you get active
There are lots of apps and online tools to help you start and stay active. Here are two that we recommend.
NHS Couch to 5K app
Millions of people like you have used Couch to 5K to start running.
NHS Active 10 app
Track and build up your daily walks – pop your phone in your pocket and off you go!
You can also find out about local opportunities and services to help you stay active via Scotland’s Service Directory
Our Services
If you looking to increase your physical activity levels but unsure where to start then visit Get Active and find about our services to support your fitness journey.
You can also find out about local opportunities and services to help you stay active via Scotland’s Service Directory
Information for staff supporting patients
- Physical Activity – NHSGGC
- Physical Activity and Health professionals – NHSGGC
- Live Active Online Referral Form A – NHSGGC (for patients without established heart disease) a free 12 week programme with an exercise coach
Weight Management
Self-help
NHS Inform provide a free online 12 Week Weight Management Programme
NHS Inform also provide information about eating a healthy balanced diet can help to prevent diet-related illness and will give you all of the energy and nutrients you need keep active and maintain a healthy weight. Visit NHS Inform: Food and nutrition
Our practical guide Eat Well, Feel Great, Lose Weight (pdf) will help get you started and build the foundations for a successful, effective weight loss that you can maintain over the long term.
Services
NHSGGC Weight Management Services support individuals with existing health conditions that could be improved by losing weight. If you have Diabetes, Heart Disease or have previously had a Stroke and are overweight then you can self-refer to the service.
You can find information on other local weight management services via Scotland’s Service Directory: Eating well and health weight
Information for staff supporting patients
- Referral guidance
- The service is not suitable for the following patients suffering from the following;
- Uncontrolled hypothyroidism
- Untreated Cushing’s syndrome
- Unstable major psychiatric illness
- Ongoing alcohol or drug abuse
- Making a New Weight Management Acute Referral on TrakCare via New Request
Smoking Cessation
Self help
Find the support you need to stop smoking with Quit Your Way Scotland
You can contact Quit Your Way Scotland for free by:
- phoning a Quit Your Way Scotland adviser on 0800 84 84 84
- chatting online with a Quit Your Way Scotland adviser
Helpline service is open:
- Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Services
Find out about local Quit Your Way services via Scotland’s Service Directory
To find out more about what our services can offer call the Quit Your Way service on 0800 916 8858 or visit NHSGGC- Quit Your Way
Information for staff supporting patients
- Information on quit your way can be found via : Quit Your Way – NHSGGC
- Referral via Trakcare
- Refer via SCI gateway at: https://www.scigw.scot.nhs.uk/web/login.aspx?instance=Live&gpassAction=login
- Quit Your Way service on 0800 916 8858
Money Advice
Self-help (community and hospital)
- For general support and information: NHS Inform – Coping with Money Worries
- Self help and support for people using our hospital services: Hospital based money advice services
- Same day financial support available for: Home Energy, Emergency Food on Discharge, Maternity Cash Grants – all available at your local hospital Support & Information Service
Support for staff with money worries
- NHSGGC staff with money worries can find a comprehensive range of information and support via: All about money
- Information and guidance for managers supporting staff with money worries
- Right Decisions Service toolkit : NHSGGC – Money Advice and Support
Resources for staff helping patients with money worries
- Inequalities Sensitive Practice guidance for staff supporting patients with money worries: Money worries
- Right Decisions Service toolkit : NHSGGC – Money Advice and Support
Alcohol And Drug Recovery Services
For alcohol and drug addiction problems individuals can either self refer directly to the local specialist teams or contact their GP. Crisis services are also available at the Glasgow Alcohol and Drug Crisis Service.
Signposting, support and self-management
Carers
- Carers – NHSGGC
- Carers support can be accessed via the Support and Information Service, contact: sis@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
- Call the Carers Information Line on 0141 353 6504 – they will put carer in touch with local service
- Information leaflets & cards available to order for free
Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
Type 2 Diabetes
Support and information on Type 2 Diabetes, Prediabetes and Gestational Diabetes:
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Glasgow City Health Improvement works to improve health and reduce health inequalities.
The aim of Health Improvement is to generate and sustain good health and reduce health inequalities, however the issues which require to be addressed are complex and multi-faceted. Health Improvement is a long term approach and whilst having important overarching targets and goals, there is a requirement for dynamism and responsiveness to deal with new or emerging issues.
In Glasgow City there are 3 locality Health Improvement Teams: North East, North West and South.
On this page, we share updates about the work we are undertaking as well as useful resources and information on health improvement activity.
Contact Us
North East Team – nehit.admin@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
North West Team – northwest.hiadministrator@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
South Team – pollok.hiadmin@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
Annual Reports
The Health Improvement Annual Report provides highlights on a range of work led on or delivered in partnership with Health Improvement.
2024 – 2025 Annual Report – Health Improvement annual report 2024-2025
Strategic Direction
Glasgow City HSCP’s Health Improvement staff deliver alongside the HSCP’s strategic plan focusing in particular on the strategic priority 1 around Prevention, Early Intervention and Harm Reduction.
Our Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement Strategic Direction provides vision and direction for our work to improve health and reduce health inequalities.
Glasgow City HSCP Health Improvement Strategic Direction 2023 – 2028
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