Protecting Children. Protecting Childhood.
Our strategic plan has been developed at a time when we have never been more concerned about the safety and wellbeing of Scotland’s children.
Despite progressive laws and a global reputation for children’s rights, Scotland is failing to protect childhood and the consequences for babies, children and young people are increasingly severe.
Whilst we have made some progress, the gap between what Scotland says and what Scotland does is wider than ever.
Children are more at risk. Childhood is under threat.
Together we can change that.
What young people told us
What else do we know?
1 in 5 children across Scotland live in poverty.
1 in 5 children have been sexually abused.
1 in 3 young people experience at least one traumatic event before the age of 18.
95 daily average referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in Scotland.
35% of sexual crimes recorded in 2024/25 by police related to victims under 18.
Reports on online child abuse doubled in Scotland between 2023/24 and 2024/25.
Our strategic goals
Campaign to radically transform systems for children.
Develop and deliver family support and therapeutic service.
Invest in our support line.
Demand sustainable investment in prevention.
Campaign to reclaim childhood and prevent online harm to children.
Grow and develop Bairns Hoose support.
Expand family group decision making (FGDM).
Read our new strategy
If not us, then who?
Together we can protect children and childhood
