Every child and young person has the right to the best health possible, to be heard, and to be supported – especially when navigating healthcare. This year’s Healthcare Rights Award celebrates someone who embodies those rights not just for herself, but for others too. Congratulations to Niamh McGregor, a passionate young volunteer and proud Health Rights Defender.
A Defender of Children’s Health Rights
Niamh’s journey with Children’s Health Scotland began when she was facing her own challenges. Struggling with anxiety around hospitals and doctors, she was introduced to the organisation to learn more about her health rights and how to manage stressful situations.
“It was recommended to me so I could learn more about my health rights and what I can do in these stressful situations,” Niamh explains.
What started as a personal journey quickly grew into something much bigger. Niamh became a Health Rights Defender, joining meetings, helping run events, and supporting other children and young people through face-to-face sessions.
Leading with Lived Experience
The judging panel was deeply moved by Niamh’s story and her commitment to helping others.
“Niamh is a great example of a children’s health rights defender,” said the judges. “She’s faced personal health challenges and used that experience to support other children through her volunteering and charity work.”
Her mum nominated her for the award, recognising the impact Niamh has made through her dedication and compassion.
“I wasn’t informed I was nominated,” Niamh says. “But my mum said she nominated me because I’ve been helping out with events and sessions, and I’m part of the Health Rights Defenders for young people like me.”
Creating Change Through Creativity
One of Niamh’s proudest achievements as a Health Rights Defender was helping create a video to raise awareness about children’s health rights. From the script to the props, every part of the project was led by young people.
“Having children be in control of these projects creates a message that can’t easily be ignored,” she says.
It’s this kind of youth-led advocacy that makes the Health Rights Defenders programme so powerful – and Niamh’s voice is helping shape a more inclusive and supportive healthcare environment for others.
Using Her Voice to Help Others
For Niamh, being a Health Rights Defender is more than just a title – it’s a mission.
“It’s quite important to me because it gives me the ability to use my own voice to help other people like me.”
Whether she’s speaking up in meetings, supporting peers, or helping run events, Niamh is making sure that children’s rights are not just recognised – but respected.
A Well-Deserved Win
Winning the Healthcare Rights Award was a surprise – but a meaningful one.
“I’m very happy that I was lucky enough to win the award,” Niamh says. “To me, it’s confirmation that my efforts are helping as I hoped.”
And they absolutely are. Niamh’s work is helping children and young people feel more confident, informed, and empowered in healthcare settings – and her story is a reminder that advocacy can start at any age.
From all of us at Children’s Health Scotland – congratulations, Niamh. You’re a true Health Rights Defender, and we’re so proud to celebrate your achievements.
About the Scottish Children’s Health Awards
The Scottish Children’s Health Awards celebrate the people and projects making a real difference in the lives of children and young people living with health conditions. Each award winner is announced during Scottish Children’s Health Week (1–7 September)—a week dedicated to raising awareness of children’s health rights, sharing inspiring stories, and promoting self-management, play, and wellbeing.
Join Us
Be part of the movement to defend children’s health rights. Explore the week’s activities, read more award stories, and share your own messages of support using #MyHealthMyRights and #SCHW2025. Whether you’re a parent, professional, young person, or supporter—your voice matters.
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.
Want to Nominate for 2026?
You can nominate now for our 2026 by clicking HERE.
