LEGAL highs, self-harm and bullying all came under the spotlight when young students across Cheshire attended a conference in Crewe.

Pupils from seven schools in the Borough attended the one-day conference at Wychwood Park, near Crewe, organised by Cheshire East Local Safeguarding Children Board.

The conference was held to discuss safeguarding and protection of young people, and saw youngsters share their thoughts and ideas with the police, health trusts and other partner agencies.

Seven schools took part in the event, including Brine Leas (Nantwich), Shavington High School and Adelaide School (Crewe).

Ian Rush, chairman of the Cheshire East Local Safeguarding Children Board said: “This was not a conference where the adults held the stage.

“It was about young people from all schools across Cheshire East telling us what they are doing, what they are worried about and how they are solving some of these problems themselves.”

A recent survey, The Cheshire East Good Childhood Report 2014, claimed one in 10 young people in Cheshire East suffers low self-esteem and confidence.

Worryingly, the borough has a higher than average number of hospital admissions due to self-harming.

At the conference, speakers challenged the professionals to view the problem from their point of view instead of through adult eyes and standard processes.

East Council leader, Cllr Michael Jones said: “I want to see my authority and our partners tackling the causes – not just the symptoms.

“The mental health and emotional wellbeing of children and young people is vitally important to both a good experience of childhood and in determining long-term health into adulthood.

“Early help is critical. Over half of all adults with mental health problems tend to be diagnosed in childhood.

“Young people should be enjoying their childhood and shaping their future not harbouring dark thoughts of self harm or even suicide.”

Cllr Rachel Bailey, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member in charge of children and families, added: “Our work from the conference doesn’t stop here.

“The message now needs to go back to all schools, through assemblies, through parents’ evenings and beyond.