As part of Scottish Children’s Health Week, we’re celebrating #BeCalm Wednesday by reflecting on the joy, connection, and empowerment found in our Bear’s Big Self-Management Skills (SMS) Adventure Days. This year, we’ve hosted three incredible picnics—each one a unique celebration of play, family togetherness, and the health rights of children. 🌳 Why Play Matters – Especially Together Play isn’t […]
News and Events
Improving Life Experiences Award Winner 2025: Bob Fraser’s Legacy of Kindness
The Improving Life Experiences Award celebrates someone who’s made a real difference to the life of a child or young person undergoing treatment – boosting their confidence, resilience, and ability to cope with challenges now and in the future. And Bob has been doing exactly that for over 40 years. Bob Fraser didn’t know he’d […]
#BeBrave Tuesday: The Power of Play in Protecting Children’s Health Rights
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 […]
Story with Rory: Sandy Meets The Teddy Hospital
This #BeBrave Tuesday, Rory is sharing a story about one very brave boy named Sandy, who reminds us that courage can grow through play, understanding, and support. In Sandy Meets The Teddy Hospital, Sandy is feeling worried about his hospital visit. But with the help of Health Play Specialist Melody and his cuddly companion Bear, Sandy […]
Health-Related Play Award 2025: Melody Cox Brings Healing Through Play
At Children’s Health Scotland, we know that play is far more than just fun – it’s a vital part of a child’s healing journey. The Health-Related Play Award celebrates someone who has made a profound difference to a young person’s life through the power of play. This year, we are thrilled to honour Melody Cox, a Health Play […]
Celebrating the Success of SMS Programmes
For children and young people living with a health condition, life can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. That’s why our Self-Management Service (SMS) Programmes are so important. Today, we are celebrating SMS programmes and the positive difference they continue to make in the lives of children and families. Since 2009, they have been helping children […]
Children’s Choice Award 2025: Dr Mark Davidson – A Doctor Who Makes Magic Happen
At Children’s Health Scotland, we believe that relationships shape the way children and young people experience care. That’s why the Children’s Choice Award is so special – it’s a heartfelt “thank you” from a child or young person to someone who made a real difference during treatment. This year’s winner is Dr Mark Davidson, Consultant in Paediatric Intensive […]
Referrals now open with spaces limited for SMS:CONNECT Programme
SMS:CONNECT, our online Self-Management Skills Programme, is returning this October—and referrals are now being accepted on a first come, first served basis. This life-changing programme supports children and young people aged 9–17 living with a health condition to build confidence, develop practical self-management skills, and take more control of their lives. Delivered in a safe, supportive […]
Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry publishes case study on children and young people’s voices
The Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry has published a new case study highlighting the experiences of over 2,000 children and young people across Scotland during the pandemic. The case study is part of the Inquiry’s public participation initiative, Let’s Be Heard, and explores how COVID-19 affected young people’s education, mental health, social lives, and family relationships.
New guidance strengthens children’s right to be heard in decisions that impact their health and wellbeing
Every child has the right to the best possible health—and that includes being heard. The Scottish Government’s updated guidance on children and young people’s participation in decision-making marks a significant step forward in ensuring that young voices are not only acknowledged but actively shape the services and policies that affect them. This guidance will influence […]
