Primary school pupils in Argyll and Bute are helping the local Child Protection Committee (CPC) to raise awareness of its work throughout the area. The CPC wanted to update their public information and to involve children in designing artwork to promote key messages about keeping children safe and protected. With the help of Fiona Blakey, Argyll and Bute Council cultural co-ordinator, the idea was turned into a project for primary schools.

Pupils were asked to think about what messages they would give to people about protecting children at home, at school and in the community. Five designs were selected, and have now been made into public information posters which will be displayed across Argyll and Bute to highlight the fact that everyone has a role to play in protecting children. The posters will be displayed in public buildings and offices across Argyll & Bute.

The winning entries came from:

Emily Hunter, P7 Taynuilt Primary:  (Title: Abuse is no use)

Scott Summers – previously Taynuilt Primary, now S1 Oban High School (Title: Drugs and alcohol no way)

Katie Houston - previously Taynuilt Primary, now S1 Oban High School (Title: Keep me away from bullies)

Poppy Wilkinson - previously Taynuilt Primary, now S1 Oban High School (Title: Computer use could be abuse)

Shona Scott, P7 Luss Primary - (Title: I want to be Happy not Sad)

Argyll and Bute Children’s Champion Councillor Mary-Jean Devon and Head of Argyll and Bute Council’s Children and Families Service Louise Long made the presentations at Taynuilt Primary School on 13th November.

Councillor Devon and David Bain, Quality Improvement Officer with Argyll and Bute Council’s Education Service and member of Argyll and Bute Child Protection Committee will make the presentation to Shona Scott at Luss Primary School on 20th November.

Councillor Mary-Jean Devon, who is also Lead Councillor for Children and Families said

‘The Child Protection Committee was very impressed with the standard of art work submitted. The chosen designs were picked because they portrayed strong images to re-enforce the messages on the posters - it's everyone's responsibility to help keep children safe, and if anyone is worried about a child or young person they should share their concerns with people who can help.’

If you are worried about a child or young person you know, please contact 01546 605517 and share your concerns with people who can offer help and support. For more information please visit www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/abcpc