Child poverty in Scotland remains unacceptably high, according to a newly published report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. Nearly one in four children are growing up in poverty, with over half living in households where someone is disabled. The report highlights worsening conditions for families due to insecure work, inadequate social security, and rising housing […]
self-management
Rights, Resilience and Real-Life Stories — our Autumn/Winter 2025 Magazine
Across Scotland, children and young people are discovering their health rights — and this season’s magazine from Children’s Health Scotland is a celebration of what happens when those rights are recognised, respected, and realised.
#BeKind – Niamh: Inspiring Change Through Kindness
Every child and young person deserves to feel supported and heard, especially in healthcare. Niamh McGregor, a young volunteer, proud Health Rights Defender, and Winner of Children’s Health Scotland’s: Healthcare Rights Award, is using her kindness and lived experiences to help children and young people feel more confident, informed, and included in their healthcare journey. […]
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 […]
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 […]
🐻 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!
Children whose health rights are most at risk benefit from our latest SMS Programme
Children and young people in Cranhill, Glasgow, whose health, wellbeing, and rights are most at risk, are now benefiting from the latest Self-Management Skills (SMS) Programme delivered by Children’s Health Scotland, Scotland’s leading children’s health charity.
How to make a Valentines Breathing Stick!
This Valentines day, make your own breathing stick using a pipe cleaner and some colourful pony beads. Breathing sticks are a mindful tool that can help to slow down breathing, making us feel calm and grounded.
SMS:HUB wins Empowering Self Management Project of the Year at the ALLIANCE Self-Management Awards
Our work to support the health and wellbeing of children and young people with long-term health conditions was honoured yesterday (20 September 2023) at the annual Self Management Awards, organised by the ALLIANCE.
SMS:CONNECT shortlisted for a national award
We are delighted to announce that our SMS:CONNECT Programme has been shortlisted for the Digital Innovator Self-Management Award – a national award that is organised by The Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE). Winners will be announced during the ALLIANCE Self-Management Week on Wednesday 27 September.
