MY HEALTH, MY RIGHTS CONFERENCE 2026
About this Event
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. CLICK HERE FOR MORE
WAITING TO BE HEARD: Young People, Mental Health and Access to Support
A reflective and participatory workshop exploring young people’s experiences of mental health and waiting for support, using lived experience to highlight the importance of listening, timely intervention and rights‑respecting care. CLICK HERE FOR MORE
EXHIBITORS AND NETWORKING
Explore our Market Place, the vibrant hub of the conference. Here you’ll find a wide range of exhibitors showcasing innovative resources, tools, and ideas to support children’s health and wellbeing. It’s also the perfect space to network, share experiences, and build connections with fellow professionals and families.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
If you work with or support children and young people in healthcare, education, social services, voluntary organisations — or are a parent or carer — this is your opportunity to learn, connect, and influence Scotland’s future for children’s health and rights.
PROGRAMME INFORMATION
08.30 – 09.15 Registration and coffee
09.15 – 09.30 Introduction by our host, Laura Boyd
09.30 – 09.40 Welcome by Chair of Children's Health Scotland,
09.40 – 10.20 Ministerial address
10.20 – 11.00 Keynote address by Sammi Kinghorn
11.00 – 11.20 Morning break for tea & coffee
11.20 – 11.30 Assemble for morning workshops
11.30 – 12.30 Morning Workshops
12.30 – 13.30 Lunch
13.30 – 14.00 Panel Debate
14.00 – 14.10 Assemble for afternoon workshops
14.10 – 15.10 Afternoon Workshops
15.10 – 15.30 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION | Afternoon tea & coffee
15.30– 16.15 Address by guest speaker
16.15 – 16.30 Closing remarks
Please note: this programme is in the process of being finalised and may be subject to change
Places are limited—secure your place today and be part of shaping a better future for children and young people.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 100.00
