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. […]
young people
Children’s Bravery Award 2025 – Jessica Miller’s Strength Shines Through
The Children’s Bravery Award honours a child or young person who’s shown extraordinary courage in the face of serious illness or disability. It recognises those who, despite immense challenges, continue to inspire others with their strength, resilience, and spirit. This year, we’re proud to present the award to Jessica Miller, whose journey has touched hearts […]
Health And Wellbeing Award 2025: Creating Smiles and Easing Journeys – Team Jak’s Motto
Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and seen – especially when facing the unimaginable challenges of serious illness. That’s the spirit behind the Health and Wellbeing Award. This award celebrates individuals or teams who go above and beyond to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people, whether in schools, hospitals, or […]
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 […]
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 […]
It Takes a Village to Play: SMS:FAMILIES and Community Wellbeing
This summer, we brought families together in Cranhill for five joyful weeks of connection, creativity, and community through our SMS:FAMILIES Programme—a partnership with Cranhill Development Trust, proudly supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery. Held on Monday afternoons, the programme welcomed families with children in Primary 1 to 4, with younger and older siblings always included. At its heart was […]
Health Rights Defenders: Syringe Art, Summer Fun, and the Right to Play
This summer, our incredible Health Rights Defenders—an inspiring group of young advocates who meet regularly to explore and discuss the most pressing health rights issues affecting children—gathered for a vibrant and meaningful session. Held during the school holidays, this meeting was more than just a creative break; it was a powerful opportunity for the group […]










