YOUNG people in the Borders took time to give their views on an innovative mental health pilot supporting those in distress.

The Distress Brief Intervention (DBI) programme is part of the Scottish Government’s mental health strategy and is a short-term intervention for people in distress or emotional pain who do not need emergency medical treatment.

The project has helped around 3500 people nationally since it launched two years ago, including almost 600 in the Borders.

The Scottish Government pilot was launched in the Borders in 2017 and was initially available to those 18 and over.

However, the pilot scheme has been so successful that a decision was take in May to include 16 and 17-year-olds.

A group of local youngsters met with local, national and Scottish Government DBI project leads in the Wellbeing College in Galashiels to give their views on the extension in the Borders.

Haylis Smith, Borders DBI programme manager, said: “On behalf of everyone involved in the programme, I want to thank all the young people who took the time to meet us and give their thoughts on DBI.

“Engagement with young people had taken place prior to the extension to 16 and 17-year-olds, but it was fantastic to have this opportunity to have a conversation with them and get their views.”

National DBI programme manager Kevin O’Neill said: “It was very insightful to hear how the connected, compassionate support which DBI-trained staff provide to those in distress, has been welcomed by young people.

“While this innovative project is still in the pilot phase, the extension is testimony to the hard work and commitment of health, police and Scottish Ambulance Service staff, as well as the other organisations providing support.”