WESTERN ISLES SCHOOL DENTAL HEALTH BOOST

It is believed to be the first time in Scotland that full sugar drinks have been removed from sports centres.

The integrated Community Schools Project conducted a wide consultation exercise with pupils, parents, school staff and health professionals and the vast majority of respondents are in favour of the proposal.

With the removal of full sugar drinks from schools and sports centres the Comhairle will promote water, milk and other appropriate drinks.

Lifestyle surveys in the islands show a disturbing increase in the consumption of sugary drinks amongst school children. Data from the Scottish Executive indicates that young people in the Western Isles have a major problem with their dental health.

However the most recent data shows an improvement in the dental health of children in the Western Isles. This is partly due to the sustained programme of Dental Health Education and promotion of healthy drinks in schools. By encouraging pupils to drink water and other less sugary substitutes this will contribute to a decline in the number of children who develop significant dental caries in later life.

The Comhairle’s Chairman of Education and Children’s Services, Cllr. Norman L Macdonald, said:
“The nutrition of the school population is a key factor in contributing to the health and welfare of future generations and less sugary drinks available in schools will have a positive effect for dental health and in reducing general sugar intake.”

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk