Our brand-new round of SMS:FACE TO FACE is underway, and we are already having an amazing time learning, sharing, playing, and growing together. Over the next six weeks, children and young people taking part will explore what it means to understand and manage their health — all with the support of peers who truly get it.
💙 What We’re Getting Up To
Every week is packed with activities that help build confidence, skills, and knowledge in fun and meaningful ways. Here’s a sneak peek at what we’re working on:
- 🧠 Managing Our Stress: From grounding techniques to creative expression and problem‑solving games, we’re discovering simple tools that help us take care of our minds and bodies.
- 💬 Exploring How to Communicate With Others: Whether it’s talking to teachers, friends, doctors, or family, we’re learning how to speak up, ask questions, and share what we need — with confidence.
- 🌈 Building Confidence and Self‑Esteem: We’re celebrating strengths, recognising achievements, and cheering each other on. Watching friendships form and confidence grow is one of the highlights of every session.
- 🏥 Understanding Our Health Rights: Our group is learning all about the UNCRC, EACH Charter and My Health, My Rights Charter, exploring what it means to be heard, involved, respected, and supported in healthcare settings.
I really like SMS because it’s fun and everyone understands me. I’ve made new friends and I feel braver now.
And we’re absolutely thrilled to have Health Rights Defenders Elodie, Ruaridh and Isha volunteering throughout this Programme. Their peer support, kindness, and lived experience make such a difference to younger participants. Having role models who understand what it’s like to grow up with a health condition is invaluable — and the energy they bring to each session is contagious!
💬 A Word From Helen Bauld, Programmes Manager
Our SMS Programmes are so important for children and young people living with a health condition. Being able to come together, learn new skills, and spend time with peers who just ‘get it’ is truly invaluable. The confidence, community, and joy we see week after week remind us why this work matters so deeply. We are incredibly grateful to our funders — The National Lottery Community Fund, The Pixel Fund, the Agnes Hunter Trust and the Cordis Charitable Trust — whose support makes SMS:FACE TO FACE possible for families across Scotland.
⭐ Want to Join Us Next Time?
If your child or a young person you support is living with a long‑term health condition and would benefit from building friendships, confidence, and self‑management skills in a fun and supportive space, we would love to welcome them to our next SMS Programme. You don’t need a diagnosis.
Referrals are open to families, schools, healthcare professionals and community workers — and taking part is completely free. REFER HERE.
👉 Get in touch to refer or learn more!
Together, we can help children and young people feel confident, capable, and empowered every day. If you have any questions then please email us on sms@childrenshealthscotland.org
