Today, we are delighted to confirm that First Minister John Swinney will deliver the Ministerial Address and Paralympian Sammi Kinghorn MBE will provide the keynote address at Children’s Health Scotland’s My Health, My Rights Conference 2026.
Taking place on Friday 2 October 2026 at Stirling Court Hotel, Stirling, the conference marks 50 years of Children’s Health Scotland. With more than half of all places already booked and Early Bird tickets available until Friday 21 August 2026, organisers are encouraging delegates to secure their place now.
BOOK YOUR PLACE TODAY
The conference will bring together children and young people, families, professionals, policymakers and organisations from across Scotland to explore how we can work together to ensure every child’s right to health is respected, protected and fulfilled.
Commenting on the event, Helen Forrest, Chief Executive of Children’s Health Scotland, said:
More than a conference, this event has been created with and for children, young people and families. We are truly delighted that the First Minister has accepted an invitation from our Health Rights Defenders to attend and address the conference. Throughout the day, delegates will hear directly from our Health Rights Defenders, young people with lived experience who are working to raise awareness of health rights and influence positive change across Scotland. Their experiences, ideas and priorities will help shape discussion, influence learning and encourage action.
The theme, My Health, My Rights, reflects Children’s Health Scotland’s commitment to Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the EACH Charter, which recognise the importance of ensuring every child can access the healthcare, support and opportunities they need to thrive. The conference will also mark the launch of Children’s Health Scotland’s National Health Rights Report, building on decades of work advocating for children, young people and families, including the organisation’s influential Parental Access and Family Facilities Report, first published in 1985.
Helen added:
This conference is about listening to children and young people, learning from their experiences, and working together to build a Scotland where every child’s right to health is understood, respected and upheld. With more than half of all places already booked and the Early Bird deadline approaching, we would encourage anyone with an interest in children’s health, wellbeing and rights to book their place now.
Delegates attending the conference will benefit from:
- A Ministerial Address from First Minister John Swinney
- A Keynote Address from Sammi Kinghorn MBE
- First access to the National Health Rights Report
- Insight from leading voices in health, rights and policy
- Interactive workshops covering topics including self-management, wellbeing, participation, play and inclusion
- Opportunities to network and share learning with professionals, families and organisations from across Scotland
- A panel discussion exploring the future of children’s health and rights
The conference is open to anyone who works with or supports children and young people, including those in healthcare, education, social care, public services and the voluntary sector, as well as parents, carers and families.
Event Details
My Health, My Rights Conference 2026
📅 Friday 2 October 2026
📍 Stirling Court Hotel, Stirling
⏰ 8.30am to 4.30pm
Early Bird Tickets
Early Bird ticket prices are available until Friday 21 August 2026.
With more than half of all places already booked, early booking is strongly recommended.
Book your place today:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/my-health-my-rights-conference-2026-tickets-1980559214927
#MyHealthMyRights #HealthRightsAware
ENDS
