Slough's first set of young health champions have ended a triumphant year working with their peers to help improve mental health in the town.

The 15 young people, all aged 17, have completed a level 2 qualification recognised by the Royal Society for Public Health, while supporting other young people find effective ways of safeguarding their mental health and wellbeing.

They celebrated with an event at The Aspire Centre, attended by various their families, health professionals and the Mayor of Slough Councillor Avtar Kaur Cheema.

Cllr Cheema said: “I would like to congratulate the four schools that have taken part - Baylis Court, Herschel Grammar, Slough and Eton and Wexham School.

"Congratulations to each of you on your achievement and on receiving your certificate. You are all beacons for other young people and please keep up your good work."

The Young Health Champions (YHC) programme is currently being expanded to every school with a sixth form. It aims to deliver a young people’s led peer emotional wellbeing programme with health and education bodies, Slough Borough Council and the youth group Aik Saath working in partnership.

Sanna Malik, 17, from Slough and Eton School, said: “It has been empowering to make a difference in the local community, providing children and young people with a better understanding of mental health. I hope this helps them in the future, to live healthier, happier lives.”

The 15 young health champions will now go back to their schools to promote health messages and recruit other health champions from across the year groups.