Scotland faces "childhood emergency"

Children First has declared a “childhood emergency” in Scotland, with new research revealing most adults believe growing up in the country is worse than ever before.

Scotland’s national children’s charity says the findings are a “horrifying wake-up call”, with urgent action needed to address neglect, abuse, poverty and a mental health crisis caused by online harm.

Mary Glasgow, Children First chief executive, said, “Today we are declaring a childhood emergency in Scotland.

“The fact that almost two-thirds of people we surveyed believe growing up in our country is worse than ever should act as a horrifying wake-up call to everyone. We must put children first.

“Adults across Scotland are seriously concerned about the horrendous impact that smartphones, social media and harmful online content is having on the mental health of children. Sadly, childhood is getting shorter in the fast-paced and dangerous world we now live in.

“Our teams across Scotland support children who are distressed and at risk of serious harm and help them recover from unthinkable trauma and abuse.

“More than a third of sexual crimes recorded by Police Scotland are against children. And, one in four children still live in poverty. As a society we are failing children.”

The study coincides with the charity launching a refreshed brand which highlights the plight of Scotland’s children today and emphasises that Children First is here to protect all Scotland’s children from harm.

Glasgow added, “Our work is more vital than ever. All children should have hopes, dreams, prospects and opportunities. But, for many, they simply don’t exist. That’s why we will do whatever it takes to help children and give them hope for a brighter future.”

Young people shared their concerns with the charity at a recent workshop. The group revealed worries about cyberbullying, the dark side of social media, the sharing of photos and videos without permission, the use of artificial intelligence, unwanted contact from strangers and being served dangerous and explicit content.

One young person, Chloe*, said: “It can be really traumatising with what’s going on online. Teenagers can overthink a lot, have a lot of insecurities and can be really anxious.”

Another young person Jack* shared: “Cyberbullying is horrid. It’s massive.”

Laura* said she felt being online: “Can be scary because you don’t always know who people are.”

Children First help children, their families and the people that care for them by offering emotional, practical, and financial support.

Anyone worried about a child in Scotland can contact the Children First support line by calling 08000 28 22 33 for free or visiting www.childrenfirst.org.uk.

*Names have been anonymised to protect the identity of the young people quoted.

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