Dear Editor,
World Mental Health Day on Saturday 10th October carries a clear message: “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”. For Scotland’s children and young people, being heard must lead to getting help.
As organisations supporting vulnerable children, we urge the Scottish Government to give mental health equal priority with physical health, backed by funding, early intervention and timely specialist care.
Young people and their families must have a meaningful say in shaping services. Their experiences should drive improvements, with stronger support in schools and communities before difficulties become crises.
Failing to act can damage education, relationships, and future opportunities, with consequences that last well into adulthood.
Listening matters. Acting on what we hear matters just as much. This World Mental Health Day, we urge ministers to deliver real change. Childhood cannot be put on a waiting list.
Yours faithfully,
The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition
Patrick Gannon, Falkland House School
Lynn Black, LOVE Care
Kenny Graham, Spark of Genius
Niall Kelly, Young Foundations
