Children and young people from across central Scotland came together for our most successful in-person Self-Management Skills (SMS) Programme to date! At the celebration session at the end of the Programme, hosted by Edinburgh Zoo, participants took part in an unforgettable animal handling session, testing their bravery by holding some fascinating creatures.
The six-week SMS Programme supports young people in making new friends, developing essential self-management skills, and learning about their health rights. To mark their achievements, our Celebration Session was held at Edinburgh Zoo—now a firm favourite among our Health Rights Defenders. During this session, attendees had the opportunity to meet a range of exciting animals, including Shelly and Gary, two GIANT African Land Snails, and Marley, whose smooth texture surprised many. Rodar, the armadillo, stole the show, though Marley was a close second!
Reflecting on the programme, one Health Rights Defender shared:
I loved the snake! I held it and felt so brave. I have loved SMS and I can’t wait to do more with all my new friends.
Another participant expressed their excitement for continuing as a Health Rights Defender:
I’ve really liked it. I’ve made a lot of new friends and I’m also really excited about the Health Rights Defenders and continuing to help children like me. I didn’t think I’d enjoy it at first, Rhianne and Eilidh had to convince me A LOT, but when I gave it a go I realised just how good it was. It’s really important for children like us, it means you aren’t alone and people here are super kind and just get you.
Michelle Wilson, Head of Children and Young People Services with Children’s Health Scotland, praised the impact of the programme:
The SMS Programme is an invaluable space for children and young people to build confidence, develop crucial skills, and feel empowered in managing their health. The Celebration Session at Edinburgh Zoo is a fantastic way to recognise their achievements and celebrate their journeys. Seeing the joy and excitement on their faces—especially as they held some incredible creatures—was truly inspiring.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the National Lottery Community Fund Scotland for their continued support, which ensures our SMS Programmes remain accessible to children and young people across Scotland.
A special thank you to Edinburgh Zoo for hosting yet another unforgettable Celebration Session, and to our dedicated volunteer, Niamh, for providing peer support throughout the morning sessions. Niamh has been an integral part of our Health Rights Defenders for several years and her kindness and commitment make a real difference.
If you know a child or young person aged 9-17 living with a health condition or concern (no diagnosis is required) you can REFER HERE.
