What steps it is taking, or considering, in order to promote mental well-being in the wider population.

The National Programme for Improving the Mental Health and Wellbeing of the Scottish Population, established in October 2001 and overseen by a National Advisory Group, (NAG) which I chair, is developing a range of initiatives to make progress on this vital component of our health improvement agenda. The programme's main objectives include raising awareness of mental health issues, promoting positive mental health, and the effective prevention of mental health problems. It links into initiatives both within and outwith the Executive, for example in the social justice, education and employment fields, to maximise the potential for mental health gain. This broad ranging approach is reflected in the membership of the NAG, which includes health, local authority, community, business, trades union and voluntary interests. An initial focus of the work is on early years, children and young people, workplace and communities. With initial funding of £4 million, current projects include an National Anti-Stigma Campaign which will be launched in October; the Breathing Space Helpline for people with low mood and depression, especially among young men; the Framework for the Prevention of Suicide and Self Harm, and a public attitude survey on mental health. Other initiatives include the development of a range of public mental health indicators; the establishment of a Public Mental Health/Mental Health Improvement library of evidence and practice, and a national project to help improve the mental health and well-being of communities and to support local community effort and capacity. A magazine Well? describing the aims of the programme has been issued widely and a copy has been placed in the Parliament's Reference Centre (Bib. number 24027).