The time for promises has passed. Hear from young people and help shape the future of children’s health rights in Scotland.

Scotland’s children cannot wait. Right now, thousands of children and young people face long waits for health support, struggle with inequality, and experience barriers to accessing the care they deserve. Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) guarantees every child the right to the highest attainable standard of health — yet too many are being left behind. Throughout the day, you’ll be invited to reflect, share your insights, and contribute to a collective voice that will help shape what comes next for children’s health rights in Scotland.

This landmark conference marks 50 years of Children’s Health Scotland and the launch of our National Health Rights Report — building on decades of advocacy, including our Parental Access and Family Facilities Report first published in 1985.

It’s more than a call to action — it’s a movement shaped by those who matter most.

Created with and for children, young people, and families, this event is led by our Health Rights Defenders. These are a group of passionate children and young people who advocate for the health rights of all young people in Scotland. They share their lived experiences of managing health conditions to raise awareness, influence policy, and ensure that every child understands and can access their rights to health, education, and wellbeing. Through creative projects, campaigns, and storytelling, they amplify voices that are often unheard and help shape a more inclusive and rights-aware society. Their voices and experiences will shape the day as we turn commitments into action.

Our theme, My Health, My Rights, underscores our unwavering commitment to Article 24 of the UNCRC and the European Association for Children in Hospital and Healthcare (EACH) Charter. We aim to ensure that every child’s right to health is upheld wherever children are — in hospitals, clinics, schools, homes, and communities. This day will spotlight and amplify the voices of Health Rights Defenders — children and young people with lived experience navigating healthcare systems.

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN FROM THE DAY

● Practical insight you can apply in your work

● A deeper understanding of children’s health rights

● New ideas and connections across the sector

● A chance to be part of real, lasting change

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DAY

● Keynote sessions from leading voices in health, rights, and policy.

● Launch of the National Health Rights Report, setting out the state of children’s health rights in Scotland.

● Interactive workshops on trauma-informed care, self-management skills, health-related play, and inclusive practice.

● Panel debate on the future of children’s health and rights in Scotland.

CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS

LEGO® Health Builders: Rights in Action

Explore children’s health rights through creative, hands‑on LEGO® building. A fun, interactive way for families to bring rights to life together. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Space, Health & Wellbeing: Finding Perspective Through Wonder

Discover how space and the sense of awe can support wellbeing and emotional resilience. A calming, inspiring session that offers a new perspective on health. CLICK HERE FORE MORE

Therapets, Canine Concern Scotland

Enjoy a relaxing session meeting Therapet dogs and their handlers. Learn how animal interaction can support wellbeing and emotional comfort. CLICK HERE FORE MORE

Art for Advocacy: Rights on Canvas

Use creativity to explore “Every Child’s Right to Health” through collaborative art. An inclusive session where expression becomes a powerful voice for rights. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

The HENRY Programme

Learn how to build healthier habits with confidence through the HENRY approach. A warm, practical session supporting families and practitioners in everyday life. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Vet for a Day: Exploring Health Through Animals

Step into the role of a zoo vet and explore health, illness, and care through animals. An engaging, hands‑on way to understand health in a new light. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Starting Early: Engaging Babies and Toddlers With Their Rights

Discover how play and sensory experiences help babies and toddlers feel safe, valued, and included. Laying the foundations for rights from the very beginning. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Voices That Matter: Media, Storytelling & Meaningful Participation

Hear directly from children and young people through powerful media and storytelling. Explore how lived experience shapes understanding and drives change. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

BUBBLETASTIC Workshop: The Science of Bubbles and Wellbeing

Explore the joyful science of bubbles and their link to wellbeing. A playful, engaging session for all ages. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Social Security Scotland Information & Support Session

Understand the support available through Social Security Scotland. A clear, practical session on Child and Adult Disability Payments and how to access them.

Description supplied by the event organiser.