This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to Dr Zoe Dunhill, in recognition of her exceptional and enduring contribution to maternal, infant and child health across Scotland.
Chosen by the judging panel for her dedication, leadership and influence over many decades, Zoe has played a significant role in shaping services, resources and information that have supported countless children, parents and families. Her work has had a lasting impact on public health, helping to ensure that children receive the very best start in life and that families have access to trusted, evidence-based guidance during some of life’s most important moments.
A respected paediatrician, leader and advocate, Zoe has spent her career championing better outcomes for children and young people. Among her many achievements, she played a pivotal role in the redevelopment of nationally recognised public health resources including Ready Steady Baby and Ready Steady Toddler. These publications have become trusted companions for parents across Scotland, providing accessible and reliable information on pregnancy, birth and the early years.
Through her leadership and expertise, complex medical and public health information was transformed into practical advice that families could easily understand and use. The resources have helped generations of parents navigate the joys and challenges of raising children, empowering them with knowledge and confidence at every stage.
Despite the enormous reach and impact of her work, Zoe remains remarkably humble. When she learned she had been selected for the award, her first thoughts were not of her own achievements, but of the colleagues who have supported her throughout her career.
I am so surprised and honoured to receive this award. It is really the whole team who should be thanked!
While Zoe is quick to share credit, the judges were unanimous in recognising the extraordinary contribution she has made in her own right. They described her as a highly influential advocate for children’s health and rights, whose work has had a lasting impact on public health policy, professional practice and the information available to parents and carers across Scotland.
Reflecting on her career, Zoe spoke warmly about the opportunities she has had to make a difference and the people she has worked alongside.
I was a paediatrician in Edinburgh for more than 20 years and had the honour of being Clinical Director at the Children’s Hospital for eight of them. That was the privilege of my life, leading a wonderful team of clinical staff and getting the planning of the new hospital under way. Latterly, I advised Health Boards and the Scottish Government on how best to deliver Children’s Health Services and also carried out inspections of those services in England. I designed the Red Book with colleagues which every new mum receives. I am totally thrilled to think that this work has been appreciated on behalf of all the paediatricians in Scotland.
These achievements represent just a snapshot of a career that has consistently focused on improving the lives of children and families. Whether working directly with patients, influencing national services or helping to create resources for parents, Zoe has always been driven by a commitment to ensuring every child has the best possible chance to thrive.
The influence of that work continues to be felt today. Years after helping to develop Ready Steady Baby, Zoe still meets people who remember how valuable it was during the early stages of parenthood.
Even today people ask me about RSB. I love the idea that parents can browse the book and find the information they need.
For many parents, those resources provided reassurance, guidance and confidence at a time when reliable information was needed most. For the judges, that lasting connection between Zoe’s work and the families it continues to support is a powerful reflection of her legacy.
While she has built an extraordinary professional career, Zoe is equally grateful for the support she has received from those closest to her.
The support of my husband and family has always been the rock on which I rely.
That makes this recognition all the more special, as she was joined by members of her family when she collected her award.
My daughter and granddaughter Matilda were there. It was Matilda’s eighth birthday, so she especially enjoyed the party!
Helen Forrest, Chief Executive of Children’s Health Scotland, said:
Dr Zoe Dunhill’s influence on children’s health in Scotland has been truly exceptional. Through her clinical leadership, expertise and unwavering commitment to improving information and services for children and families, she has helped shape the experiences of generations of parents and young people. Her work has left an enduring legacy, making her a thoroughly deserving recipient of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
From her years as a practising paediatrician to her leadership in developing national resources and influencing children’s health services, Zoe’s contribution to Scotland’s children and families cannot be overstated. Her work has touched the lives of countless people, helping parents feel informed, supported and empowered while improving outcomes for children across the country.
This Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates not only a remarkable career, but also a legacy that will continue to benefit future generations for many years to come.
Join Us for Scottish Children’s Health Week
The Scottish Children’s Health Awards are part of Scottish Children’s Health Week, a national celebration of children and young people’s health, wellbeing and rights.
From inspiring award winner stories to activities, resources and opportunities to get involved, Scottish Children’s Health Week shines a spotlight on the importance of ensuring every child understands their rights and has the support they need to thrive.
Whether you’re a child, young person, parent, carer, professional or supporter, we’d love you to join the conversation. Share your messages of support using #MyHealthMyRights and #SCHW2026, explore this year’s activities, and help us create a Scotland where every child is #HealthRightsAware.
Visit https://www.childrenshealthscotland.org/events/scottish-childrens-health-week/ to learn more, download resources, and discover how you can take part in Scottish Children’s Health Week 2026.
About the Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lifetime Achievement Award is a special award selected by the judging panel of the Scottish Children’s Health Awards. It is not open to public nomination and is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding and lasting contribution to improving the health, wellbeing and rights of children and young people.
Each year, the award recognises exceptional dedication, leadership and impact, celebrating those whose work has helped shape a better future for children and families across Scotland.
