As we mark #BeBrave Tuesday during Scottish Children’s Health Week, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on something that might seem simple—but is profoundly powerful: play.
Through our work in the Cranhill area with the Cranhill Development Trust, we’ve been celebrating the right of every child to play. These sessions have been joyful, energetic, and deeply meaningful—not just for the children, but for the communities around them.
Why Play Matters
Play is not just fun. It’s how children make sense of the world. Through play, children explore emotions, test boundaries, and rehearse real-life situations in a safe and supportive environment. Whether it’s pretending to be a doctor, navigating a hospital setting with dolls and teddies, or building a world from blocks, play helps children feel prepared, resilient, and brave.
For children facing health challenges—or whose families are navigating complex systems—play becomes even more vital. It’s a way to process fear, build confidence, and feel in control.
Health-Related Play: A Right, Not a Luxury
Our Health Rights Service exists to ensure that children and young people understand their rights when it comes to health and healthcare. That includes the right to be heard, the right to be involved in decisions, and yes—the right to play.
In our Cranhill sessions, we’ve seen firsthand how health-related play can open up conversations that might otherwise be too difficult. Children have shared their worries about hospitals, asked questions about treatments, and role-played scenarios that help them feel ready for real-life experiences.
“I like playing doctor because I get to fix my teddy’s sore tummy and make him feel better. Then I feel like I can be brave too!”
— Child, age 6
“When I was a child, my right to play wasn’t respected—and that left a lasting impact. As an adult, I carry that trauma. That’s why I’m so passionate about ensuring children today have access to positive, empowering experiences through play. Health-related play and story play open up imaginary worlds where children can explore, express, and feel safe. It’s not a luxury—it’s a right, and one that’s protected by the incorporation of the UNCRC.”
— Rhianne Forrest, Officer for Children’s Health Scotland
Listening to Health Rights At Risk Families
We know that some families face greater barriers to accessing healthcare and having their voices heard. That’s why we’re committed to working with Health Rights At Risk families—to ensure that every child’s voice is valued, and that their experiences shape the services designed to support them.
By creating playful, inclusive spaces, we’re not just offering fun—we’re building trust, understanding, and bravery.
Be Brave, Be Heard, Be Seen
This #BeBrave Tuesday, let’s all be Health Rights Defenders. Let’s recognise the transformative power of play, amplify children’s voices, and protect their rights—today and every day.
