YOUNG Scot and the Scottish Government have joined forces to cut through ‘fake news’ and provide quality-assured information to young people in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area on COVID-19, how to prevent catching it and simple steps to stop the spread of it.

It’s easy for young people to feel overwhelmed or scared by everything they’re hearing about the COVID-19 outbreak, so new resources created by Young Scot supply young people with jargon-busting and easy to consume information on young.scot/coronavirus.

To raise awareness of the new information resources, top Scottish influencers have taken to Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter to share links and encourage young people to only use trusted sources of information. The campaign has already been backed by Scottish singer-songwriter Nina Nesbitt, Scotland rugby captain, Stuart Hogg, and Blethered podcast host Sean McDonald.

The website, which includes information and advice from NHS Inform, is continuously updated and already includes a Q&A video with Jason Leitch (National Clinical Director at the Scottish Government), a COVID-19 glossary, tips for staying positive, relaxation methods, ways to support the community in times of crisis and a #handwashingchallenge TikTok video.

Louise Macdonald OBE, CEO of Young Scot, said: "Young Scot wants to make sure young people in Central Fife have a place to turn to for information they can trust. To help them, we have published quality-assured information on what's happening, the simple steps to take to help prevent catching Covid-19 and how to avoid spreading it to others.”

Education Secretary, John Swinney said: “Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health, or self-isolating if necessary.

"It is all part of the same goal – to keep ourselves healthy. NHS Inform has good information on what you need to do to keep yourself well and Young Scot’s new website brings together information from trusted sources at young people’s fingertips in an easy to digest format.

“If you are feeling stressed or anxious, think about how constant exposure to media coverage and graphic news stories are making you feel. Although it is important to stay informed, consider taking a break if you feel things are getting on top of you.”

For more information visit young.scot/coronavirus.