For children and young people living with a health condition, life can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. That’s why our Self-Management Service (SMS) Programmes are so important. Today, we are celebrating SMS programmes and the positive difference they continue to make in the lives of children and families.
Since 2009, they have been helping children and young people across Scotland to build confidence, develop essential self-management skills, and discover that they are not alone. Over the years, the programmes have grown and adapted, reaching more families than ever before. From in-person sessions to online groups that bring children together from across Scotland, SMS has become a place where skills are learned, friendships are built to last, and memories are created.
Building Confidence and Community
Self-management isn’t about facing health challenges alone. It’s about building a stronger relationship with yourself, your health, and the people around you. SMS sessions focus on boosting confidence, self-esteem, communication skills, and wellbeing. They help children feel ready to take control of their own health journey.
At SMS, children and young people learn that self-management can be fun. Whether it’s playing UNO with new friends or working together in scavenger hunts, the sessions are designed to put children at ease while giving them practical skills they can use in everyday life.
The sense of community doesn’t end when the six-week programme finishes. Thanks to the SMS HUB, children and young people stay connected through fun online activities and special events. Partnerships with organisations like Edinburgh Zoo, Glasgow Science Centre, and the Scottish Book Trust have given young people new experiences that build confidence, spark curiosity, and strengthen friendships.
As one young person put it:
“I like that I can join in from my house. I feel more comfortable here and less stressed about meeting new people. The group is a lot of fun, and we learn a lot too!”
Memories That Last
Every SMS Programme leaves behind special memories for both the children and their families. Parents have told us how much the sessions mean to their children:
“She’s enjoyed it so much. It’s given her something to do after school when otherwise she wouldn’t have had anything. You don’t understand the difference you’ve made, just how much it has boosted her.”
For many children, the most important part is meeting others who understand what they’re going through. Shared laughter over games, storytelling sessions, and even small moments like discovering who owns a pet turtle or who’s seen Wet Wet Wet in concert remind them they are not alone.
Special events create even more treasured memories. At Dreamnight at Blair Drummond Safari Park, families from the SMS HUB enjoyed a magical evening exploring the park after hours. For many, it was an experience they never thought possible:
“I can’t travel very far, and I haven’t been able to go anywhere for a while. I loved getting to see the animals, especially the big cats!”
These experiences give families a chance to enjoy time together, strengthen relationships, and create joyful memories that last long after the sessions have ended.
Celebrating Successes
Behind every memory is a story of growth and achievement. Over the past year, SMS has reached more children and families than ever before.
Last year, a phenomenal 128 children took part in SMS. Thanks to fun activities, tailored support, and a focus on friendship, all children completed the programme. The results were incredible:
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85% increase in confidence
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78% increase in communication skills
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91% increase in knowledge of health rights
And the success didn’t stop there. So far this year, a further 29 children have completed the programme, with even more expected by the end of the year!
Children also told us how much they enjoyed coming each week, often asking when the next session would be. For staff, hearing these words is a reminder that the effort, planning, and care that goes into every SMS session is worth it.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, SMS will continue to grow, evolve, and celebrate the voices of children and young people. New partnerships are already being developed!
The SMS HUB continues to grow and will remain a safe online space where children and young people can stay connected, supported, and engaged even after their programmes finish. With in-person sessions continuing across Scotland, we’re making sure more children can experience the benefits of SMS close to home.
Self-management is not just about coping with a health condition. It’s about learning to live well, to feel confident, and to celebrate strengths. Thanks to the SMS Programmes, children and young people across Scotland are discovering just how powerful they can be when given the right support.
To refer a child or young person to an SMS Programme, CLICK HERE!
