DOZENS of children were encouraged to make positive life choices during an open day.

 

Around 150 school pupils in the Paisley area were entertained by theatre and community groups, during the Choices for Life community partners day yesterday.

Police officers teamed up with a host of partners to hammer home safety messages to young people.

The event at the Tannahill Centre, Ferguslie Park, Paisley, involved active workshops, discussions and a chance to watch some drama.

It was held to talk about intense peer pressure which can lead to youngsters taking drugs, drinking alcohol or becoming involved in anti-social behaviour.

The risks and dangers were highlighted to the groups who were from schools including Castlehead High, Gleniffer High and Glencoats Primary.

The young people who attended were urged to make informed decisions and positive lifestyle choices.

Officers teamed up with a number of partners and organisations such as Renfrewshire Council, Ferguslie Park Housing Association, Ferguslie League of Action Group, Engage Renfrewshire, Kibble Works, Ferguslie Community Group, Shape Up Educational Charity, Princes Trust and Street Stuff which is a partnership programme between Renfrewshire Council, St Mirren Football Club, Engage Renfrewshire, Police Scotland and Strathclyde Fire and Rescue. The event was also supported by local MPs, MSPs and Councillors.

Chief Superintendent Jim Downie, Divisional Commander for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde said: "It takes a lot for a young person to say no to something all their friends are doing, as they can feel pressured into doing something they really don't want to do.

"These events are about offering practical advice on how to deal with these issues and other problems, giving young people the access to information that will give them the confidence they need to make positive choices in their lives.

"We hope the event will equip young people with useful information which in turn will allow them to deal with the potential issues which they could be facing as they come into adulthood."

Councillor Tommy Williams, convener of Renfrewshire Council's Housing and Community Safety Policy Board, said: "I attended the event and it was very encouraging to see the young people getting involved in all the activities and at the same time learning some important messages. "Renfrewshire has a strong track record of developing partnership programmes in giving people opportunities to get involved in sports, workshops and community activities which deliver positive results for themselves and their communities.

"This event was well supported and will certainly benefit those who took part."