Scottish Parliament exhibition calls on MSPs to ensure voice of children and young people is heard in future policy-making

Forces Children Scotland delivered a three-day exhibition at the Scottish Parliament which has called on members to ensure the voice of children and young people from serving, reservist and veteran families is heard in policy-making.

Member within the Scottish Parliament learned that children and young people from armed forces and veteran families feel they are a seldom-heard, invisible group across Scotland, whose unique challenges are simply not on the radar of civilian audiences.

In response, members were asked to pledge their support to Forces Children Scotland’s campaign which has asked members of the Scottish Parliament to consider three important action points to ensure the voice of children and young people is heard in future policy-making.

The campaign asked members to consult directly with children and young people in the future, to understand what specific support is required and to amplify the voice of children and young people from armed forces and veteran families in their respective constituencies.

Although members were aware of challenges faced to education and learning, the team encouraged members to consider wider support needs concerning mental health and wellbeing, important transitions, active participation in decision-making and data collection.

Members also benefited from a preview of the charity’s Forces Life board game and comic book learning resource, which showcased at the exhibition and has been co-produced with a working group of young people who have shared their unique experiences of life in a forces family.

Douglas Ross MP MSP Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionists said:

“I am delighted to support Forces Children Scotland’s campaign and discuss what we can do to shape future policy around children and young people from armed forces and veteran families.

“With Kinloss Barracks and RAF Lossiemouth in Moray, I look forward to working together to deliver for many children and young people in the area.”

Forces Children Scotland extends its gratitude to over thirty-five members of the Scottish Parliament who have pledged their support.

For further information about our policy work, please contact policy@forceschildrenscotland.org.uk