News and stories

Statement: It’s a year since the Committee on the Rights of the Child warned of the pandemic’s grave effects. Now, we’ve seen them come to pass

In this statement, Commissioner Bruce Adamson reflects on the impact of the pandemic on children and young people across Scotland, and how more still needs to be done to protect their human rights.

Commissioner: SQA must “urgently communicate” alternative assessment for 2021 Highers/Advanced Highers

Following cancellation of 2021 Highers and Advanced Highers, the Commissioner says that assessment replacing them must be urgently set out.

Position Statement: Covid restrictions on students

We've raised concerns on student Covid restrictions with Scottish Government and Universities Scotland, as expressed in our Position Statement.

Commissioner’s Statement: Response to Ministerial Statement on SQA Exam Results 2020

Statement from Commissioner Bruce Adamson on today's Ministerial Statement by Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills John Swinney MSP.

Statement: Children and Young People’s Commissioner responds to Scottish Parliament Public Petitions Committee report on Improving Youth Football

Commissioner Bruce Adamson's statement following the publication of the Scottish Parliament Public Petitions Committee report on Improving Youth Football.

Children’s right to education in a pandemic: Our evidence to the Education and Skills Committee

Our office has responded to the Scottish Parliament’s call for evidence around school closures, exam cancellations and vulnerable children.

Statement on Trussell Trust figures showing an 62% increase in food parcels given to children in Scotland in April

Children and Young People’s Commissioner Bruce Adamson fully supports calls for a lump sum cash payment of £250 for families on low incomes.

European Network of Ombudspersons for Children Statement: Children’s rights in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak

As a member of ENOC we are calling upon our governments, the European Commission and the Council of Europe to undertake all appropriate actions to ensure the rights of children are respected during the COVID-19 healthcare crisis.

Commissioner’s statement on Scottish Government response to independent mental health review

The Commissioner comments on Cabinet Secretary for Justice Humza Yousaf's response to the independent review of mental health support for young people in custody.