YOUNG people across Renfrewshire are having their say on school menus as part of an initiative to improve their wellbeing.

Financed by Renfrewshire Council’s Tackling Poverty fund and operated in partnership with Active Communities, each school has a teacher coordinator who works with a group of pupils who promote issues students identify as important to them, such as healthy eating and making improvements for their fellow students.

School catering staff have met regularly with some of the groups and as new school menus were introduced just weeks ago across Johnstone, Gryffe, Castlehead, Trinity, Park Mains, Paisley Grammar and Renfrew High Schools, pupils and staff are already enjoying the positive benefits.

Renfrewshire’s Year of Young People Champion, Councillor Michelle Campbell dropped into Johnstone High to see what a difference the initiative has made.

She said: “The message from the young people here has been how much they value having their voices heard and having an input into something as fundamental as the food on their plates.

“They see lunch as a social situation, which is such a positive thing in terms of their health and wellbeing.

“Sharing a meal is something which unites us all and this is something that will develop going forward, for young people’s entire school careers.”

A healthier breakfast service has been introduced to phase out traditional filled rolls in favour of choices such as toast, poached eggs and fruit, as well as reducing the size and availability of home baking options.

Second year pupil Thea Brady said: “I think the new menu is good as there are a lot of choices, especially for people who perhaps have food allergies to think about.”

Aidan Hepburn, 16, who is a fourth year pupil at the school, said: “Ever since it started I’ve really liked it as there’s a much better choice and it’s much healthier.

“There are also choices if you are vegan. I’ve been enjoying coming to the canteen.”

Head teacher Lynne Hollywood: “This for us is about more than the food that’s going into the children, it’s more about a lifestyle change.

“The pupils have had a huge impact on the menu. Going forward, the pupils will continue to be involved.”