Over the past year, through the delivery of trauma-informed, rights-based services, Children’s Health Scotland (CHS) has supported 7,866 children and young people, 7,185 parents and carers, and 5,743 professionals across Scotland—empowering children to thrive and helping families feel informed, included, and supported.
The newly published Annual Review and Impact Report 2024–25 highlights a year of bold progress, deep connection, and meaningful change. From hospital wards to classrooms, CHS has been a trusted champion for children’s health rights—ensuring every child feels seen, heard, and respected.
This year marked the first full year of implementing CHS’s ambitious Strategic Plan 2024–2030, which builds on the charity’s legacy and sets a clear direction for the future. Guided by five strategic priorities—Expertise and Information, Voice, Improving Life Experiences, Training and Resources, and Health-Related Play—CHS continues to deliver inclusive, child-led services that reflect the lived experiences of those it supports.
A Year of Impact
- 7,866 children and young people supported through school presentations, hospital visits, and tailored 1:1 support.
- 21,026 individuals and 7,185 families received healthcare rights information.
- 36,468 publications distributed, including leaflets, packs, and the beautifully illustrated Sandy Meets the Teddy Hospital.
- 3,191 children and young people and 3,343 families supported through our Health and Wellbeing Service. We delivered ten SMS Programmes to a total of 123 children and young people—seven face-to-face and three online—tailored to their needs.
- 298 carers supported through trauma-informed workshops and the LAFS Programme.
- 906 professionals attended CHS events, with 3,524 receiving training resources.
CHS also celebrated Scottish Children’s Health Week 2024, distributing over 5,000 Activity Books and hosting the Bear’s Tea Party at the Balmoral Hotel, where seven inspiring award winners were recognised.
A particular highlight this year was the growing impact of our Health Rights Defenders—a vibrant group of young volunteers who are helping shape CHS’s resources, events, and advocacy work. Their voices were front and centre at our Parliamentary Reception, where they launched the My Health, My Rights Charter and shared powerful insights into what health rights mean to them.
Financial Resilience
Despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, CHS maintained a strong financial position with a gross income of £339,359 and expenditure of £320,982, keeping reserves broadly within the target range to ensure continuity of services.
Looking Ahead
As CHS approaches its 50th anniversary as a registered Scottish charity with OSCR in October 2026, the charity remains focused on advancing the healthcare rights and wellbeing of children and young people across Scotland. With strengthened governance and a visionary strategy, CHS is proud to be leading the way in creating trauma-informed, child-led services that put children’s voices at the heart of healthcare.
Children’s Health Scotland exists to ensure that every child—regardless of background, ability, or circumstance—can access the healthcare and support they need to thrive.
— Maggie Simpson, Chair
To read the full Annual Review and Impact Report, CLICK HERE
