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 […]
health rights
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Empowering Professionals: Why Health Rights Training Matters Now More Than Ever
Children’s rights in healthcare are no longer just best practice—they’re the law. With Scotland’s landmark incorporation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into Scots law as of July 2024, professionals across health, education, social care, and justice are now legally required to uphold these rights in every decision and interaction. […]
🐻 Bear’s CASTLETASTIC Picnic for kinship care families at Stirling Castle! 🏰
What do you get when you mix dragon eggs, parachutes, knight poses, and a whole lot of love? Bear’s CASTLETASTIC Picnic at Stirling Castle – a magical day for kinship care families from across Scotland!
Inspire, Support, Empower: Book Your Free Foster and Kinship Care Workshops for 2026
Are you part of an organisation, local authority, or community group supporting Foster or Kinship Carers? Then now’s the time to book your FREE workshops for 2026-27 with Children’s Health Scotland. Our workshops are designed to empower carers, boost their confidence and wellbeing, and help them provide the best possible care for the children and young people in their lives. These […]
Support for young people living with a health condition: Refer to our SMS Programme starting August 2025
Children’s Health Scotland is delighted to announce the return of our Self-Management Skills (SMS) Programmes this August 2025. These in-person programmes are ideal for children and young people aged 9–17 living with a health condition or concern—no formal diagnosis is required.
