This story introduces us to a child whose “shadow” does not match the expectations placed upon them. Their interests, their expression, and their sense of self sit outside what others believe is acceptable. What follows is not just a story about difference—it is a story about visibility, courage, and the conditions children need to truly […]
wellbeing
Join Our Self-Management Skills (SMS) Programme in Edinburgh
Referrals now open for our next SMS Programme (Ages 9–17) which is being delivered in Edinburgh. Our Self-Management Skills (SMS) Programme is a supportive group experience for children and young people living with health conditions. Delivered over a series of sessions, it helps young people build confidence, develop practical skills to manage their health and […]
Protection Without Participation Is Not Protection: Children’s Health Scotland Responds to Social Media Ban Consultation
Children’s Health Scotland has published its response to the national consultation on proposals to introduce a social media ban for under 16s, drawing directly on the voices of children, young people, parents and carers. While the intention to improve online safety is welcomed, the organisation is urging policymakers to rethink a blanket ban approach, warning that […]
A Wild Adventure from Home: Safari Comes to the SMS HUB
Roaring with excitement and packed with imagination, our latest SMS HUB session took young people on a virtual safari adventure — all from the comfort of home. From spotting “wild” treasures to creating brand-new species, it was a journey full of curiosity, creativity and connection.
SMS HUB: Cracking the Case at Mrs Peacock’s Mansion
Our latest SMS HUB session took a mysterious turn as young people joined us online to step inside Mrs Peacock’s mansion for an evening of clues, characters, and clever thinking. The session, “Mrs Peacock’s Feathers”, brought a classic Cluedo style mystery to life, giving young people the chance to work together, ask questions, and solve […]
“Sometimes You Have to Be a Little Brave”: Volunteering, Voice and Seeing Ourselves on Stage
Elodie is ten. She’s thoughtful, creative, and clear about one thing: children deserve to be listened to when it comes to their health. She also knows how often decisions are made around children rather than with them, which is why she’s a Health Rights Defender. As a Health Rights Defender, Elodie gives her time, ideas and creativity to help adults understand what it’s really like to […]
A Prescription for Change: Putting Children’s Health at the Heart of Scotland’s Decisions
As Scotland approaches the 2026 Holyrood elections, there is an urgent need to refocus our national priorities. Children’s Health Scotland stands firmly alongside the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) Scotland in calling for a bold and sustained commitment to improving child health. As Michelle Wilson, Head of Children’s Services at Children’s Health […]
All Hands on Deck! Pirate Adventure Delivers Powerful Boost to Kinship Families’ Health and Wellbeing
Families from across Scotland set sail on a day of laughter, movement and connection as Children’s Health Scotland launched its first Bear’s Big Adventure Day of 2026 — a swashbuckling pirate takeover at M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park. Disguised as a day of pure fun, Bear‑ied Treasure delivered something far more powerful: inclusive, child‑led health‑related play […]
The SMS HUB in March: A Journey Amongst the Stars
Our March SMS HUB session took young people on an adventure far beyond their screens and into the wonders of the universe. Joining from across Scotland, the group came together online for an evening filled with space‑themed fun, imagination and curiosity, discovering new worlds, sharing ideas, and exploring big questions about what lies beyond our […]
SMS: Growing our Confidence Together
Our Self-Management Skills (SMS) programmes help children feel more comfortable together while beginning to explore Self-Management Skills. During our programme this week it has been wonderful to see confidence starting to grow as the children and young people settle into the group.
