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xNational Health Rights report 2026
Date: 21st October 2026
Category:
Basic Health and Welfare
Author:
The National Health Rights Report 2026 was launched on 2nd October 2026 at the My Health, My Rights Conference, organised by Children’s Health Scotland. The report findings include that although children and young people in Scotland are becoming more aware of their health rights, many are still not experiencing these rights in practice.
The report draws on the views of more than 1,100 children, young people, parents, carers, health professionals and education professionals across Scotland. It was developed by Children’s Health Scotland as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations. Children and young people with lived experience of health conditions, known as Health Rights Defenders, helped shape the report and are working to influence improvements to children’s health rights across Scotland.
Rt Hon John Swinney, First Minister of Scotland, said:
“Scotland’s future will be shaped by its children and young people, which is why their voices must be heard today. The Scottish Government is putting them at the heart of the decisions we make and their views are helping to shape policy, improve services and make Scotland a better place.
“The experiences shared in this report highlight the progress we have made and the challenges that remain. We will continue to focus on prevention and early intervention, ensuring children, young people and families can access the support they need when they need it, helping families to thrive and doing all we can to ensure no child grows up in poverty. By continuing to listen and act on what we hear we will help ensure every child knows their rights and fulfils their potential.”