Holyrood committee seeks views on proposals aimed at protecting future generations
A proposed new law that aims to ensure public bodies consider the long-term impact of their decisions on sustainable development and the wellbeing of future generations is the subject of a new call for views from a Scottish Parliament committee.
The Wellbeing and Sustainable Development (Scotland) Bill, introduced earlier this year by Sarah Boyack MSP, would place a legal duty on public bodies to promote sustainable development and wellbeing in the work they undertake. It also proposes the creation of a Future Generations Commissioner to support and oversee this work.
The Social Justice and Social Security Committee has launched its call for views to inform its Stage 1 scrutiny of the Bill during which it will also take account of the findings of a recent parliamentary committee report that recommended against the creation of more commissioners.
Sarah Boyack MSP has set out her hopes that the Bill will encourage more joined-up thinking across public services. She also believes that her proposals will help Scotland tackle long-term challenges such as climate change, inequality, and environmental degradation.
The Bill also sets out definitions of “sustainable development” and “wellbeing” and aims to embed these principles into public decision-making in Scotland.
The Committee’s call for views will be open until Sunday 24 August 2025, with the Committee due to start taking formal evidence in the Autumn.
Collette Stevenson MSP, Convener of the Social Justice and Social Security Committee, said: “This Bill could have a significant impact on how decisions are made across Scotland’s public sector.
“We’re keen to hear what the public sector and local authorities make of the proposals, and we’d also like to hear from professionals, academics, children and young people, as well as anyone else with an interest in wellbeing and sustainable development.
“By sharing your views with us, you’ll help us explore how the proposals could work in practice and what the changes could mean for Scotland’s future generations.”
HOLYROOD’s Health, Social Care and Sport Committee is launching an inquiry into treatment pathways and support for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The inquiry aims to:
Understand why waiting times for diagnosis and management of ADHD and ASD are reportedly long, including the drivers of increasing demand;
Understand how these conditions are diagnosed and managed;
Examine the impact of high demand and delays on individuals and healthcare staff;
Explore solutions to improve capacity of services, referral pathways and support.
Both ADHD and ASD are neurodevelopmental conditions. ADHD is characterised by a group of symptoms that includes difficulty in concentrating, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour, while Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition that affects the way a person communicates, interacts and processes information.
As of March 2025, there were 42,530 children waiting for neurodevelopmental assessments in Scotland (across all health boards except NHS Grampian, who could not provide data).
The Committee is asking individuals and their families to share their experiences of accessing pathways to treatment and support for ADHD and ASD. They also want to hear from individuals who work supporting those with ADHD or ASD.
As part of the inquiry, the Committee will also be writing to relevant organisations directly to seek their views.
Clare Haughey MSP, Convener of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, said: “Our Committee is launching this inquiry because we are concerned by reports of long waits for neurodevelopmental assessments in Scotland.
“Data from Scotland’s health boards shows that eight NHS boards currently report waiting times exceeding three years for these conditions.We want to learn what is causing these delays, explore potential solutions and find out ways to improve treatment and support for individuals with ADHD or ASD.
“We’re keen to hear personal experience of any issues faced in terms of diagnosis, waiting times and access to care and support. We also welcome any positive experiences and examples of good practice which could potentially be rolled out across all of Scotland’s NHS health boards.
”The insights we gather will be a vital element of our scrutiny and will help to inform the questions we pose to support organisations, healthcare providers and the Scottish Government in future evidence sessions.”
Changes to the law which would give children a greater say in decisions around being withdrawn from religious instruction or observance in schools will be considered by a Scottish Parliament Committee, which has today launched a call for views on the proposals.
The Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty) (Scotland) Bill would require schools to inform pupils if their parent has requested that they be withdrawn from religious education or observance.
It would also give pupils the opportunity to express their views and object to the withdrawal. Under the proposals, where a pupil objects, and is considered capable of forming a view, the school would be required to follow the pupil’s wishes.
In addition, the Bill, which was brought forward by the Scottish Government, seeks to clarify how public authorities should act when duties under the UNCRC conflict with other legal obligations.
The Parliament’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee wants to hear the views of children and young people, parents and carers, teachers, local authorities, human rights organisations and any stakeholders with an interest in the proposals.
Karen Adam MSP, Convener of the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee, said: “This proposed change to the law would give children and young people more say in whether they want to take part in religious education or observance at school.
“It also aims to update how public bodies, like councils and schools, make sure they are respecting children’s rights under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
“We want to hear what people across Scotland think about these changes. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, pupil, or just interested in children’s rights, we want to understand how these proposals might work in practice and what impact they could have.”
Be part of the conversation at The Scottish Parliament’s Festival of Politics, happening 20 to 22 August 2025 at Holyrood.
This year’s festival promises lively debates, thought-provoking panels, and inspiring voices tackling the most pressing social, political, and environmental issues of our time. Whether you’re passionate about climate justice, equality, or the future of democracy, we welcome you to join us and have your say.
What to expect:
30 events across three days
Leading thinkers, activists, and politicians
Set within the unique architecture of the Scottish Parliament
Tickets from just £5
The chance to put your question to the experts
Newsletter subscriber exclusive offer As a newsletter subscriber, you’re among the first to know that tickets have just gone on sale. We’d also like to offer you an exclusive deal – use the discount code WeLoveFOP during checkout to get 50% off!
On Thursday, 19 June, the Scottish Parliament opened its doors for a cross-party Eid Al-Adha reception, marking one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar with an evening of reflection, solidarity, and shared purpose.
Sponsored by Foysol Choudhury MSP (Labour), Dr Pam Gosal MSP (Conservative), and Willie Rennie MSP (Liberal Democrat), the event was held in the Garden Lobby and brought together MSPs, diplomats, faith leaders, and community members to recognise the contributions of Scotland’s Muslim communities and reaffirm Parliament’s commitment to equality and inclusion.
The First Minister said: “Today in Parliament, Foysol and I reflected on the legacy of Sir Geoff Palmer, a pioneer of kindness, inclusion, and tolerance in Scotland. In his spirit, I want to reaffirm my belief in a Scotland where we come together, across all backgrounds, to build communities grounded in respect, understanding, and the common good.
“At a time of anxiety and fear for many in the Muslim community, let me make it absolutely clear: as First Minister of Scotland, I believe in an inclusive Scotland, where people from all backgrounds come together to build a society rooted in kindness, harmony, and shared purpose.”
Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Events like this are a reminder to celebrate our differences and walk together as one toward a more tolerant Scotland.
“Racism and prejudice still exist across all communities, and it is our collective responsibility to build a country where everyone can thrive, regardless of background.”
The event drew wide support, with MSPs in attendance including Neil Bibby, Liam Kerr, Sharon Dowey, Patrick Harvie (Co-Leader of the Scottish Green Party), Kaukab Stewart (Minister for Equalities), and newly elected Davy Russell, demonstrating cross-party backing for an inclusive, pluralist Scotland.
Dignitaries and special guests also joined the occasion, including Summar Javed, Consul General of Pakistan in Glasgow; the Deputy Consul General of Turkey; and Dr Adrees, Chair of the Muslim Council of Scotland, highlighting the significance of the event both nationally and internationally.
Mr Choudhury extended his best wishes to those unable to attend, including Alison Johnstone, the Presiding Officer; Russell Findlay MSP, Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party; and Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of the Labour Party—each recognised for their leadership in promoting civic engagement, cohesion and justice.
Organised in partnership with the Muslim Council of Scotland and the Consulate of Pakistan in Glasgow, the evening served as a powerful reminder of how public institutions can foster unity, particularly in times of global uncertainty.
The event was a significant moment for Scotland’s Muslim community, offering a welcoming space to celebrate culture, faith, and the invaluable contributions Muslims make to public life. It also created a meaningful opportunity for dialogue, connection, and recognition, underscoring Scotland’s ongoing commitment to equality, mutual respect, and community cohesion.
Foysol Choudhury added: “Since I was elected in 2021, I’ve been passionate about promoting anti-racist education, whether that’s through my work with the Cross-Party Group on Racial and Religious Prejudice or by supporting community events that bring people together to celebrate their heritage.
!This is something I care deeply about, and I’ll keep working to build a more inclusive and understanding Scotland.”
In his closing remarks, Willie Rennie said: “Tonight is all about diversity and coming together. Without Foysol in the Parliament, I don’t think that voice would be nearly as strong as it is.”
The launch of Scotland’s National Day of Movement marks a new chapter in championing inclusive activity for people living with long-term health conditions
The Scottish Government’s public health minister yesterday (18th June) joined participants representing Scotland’s third sector in enjoying the benefits of physical activity to help celebrate Scotland’s first-ever National Day of Movement.
Held outside the Scottish Parliament and led by the Movement for Health Coalition, the event attracted community and health leaders, political and government representatives, academics, and people living with long-term conditions to celebrate movement in all its varied forms.
The event formed part of a wider day of celebrations focused on all forms of physical activity in Scotland by charity partners, government, and academia.
The National Day of Movement is a celebration of all forms of movement and the benefits this brings to our physical, mental, and social health.
It shines a spotlight on a more inclusive approach to physical activity, especially for the nearly 50% of adults in Scotland living with at least one long-term health condition who often face unique barriers that make reaching global physical activity guidelines difficult.
Today we celebrate those who fight through the pain, tiredness and other challenges, to find happiness and health in any movement they enjoy, big or small, and reminds us that all steps forward count.
The third sector, community and local government organisations play a vital role in turning movement into something enjoyable and achievable.
Movement for Health coalition members and partners are leading the way, supporting those that live with minor and limited movements due to their health conditions through inclusive, welcoming, and social physical activity programmes across the whole of Scotland.
This year’s National Day of Movement showcased just how empowering, joyful and accessible these activities can be, including breath work, gardening, and seated sports such as Boccia.
The event also shone a light on the importance of rest and pace for people living with chronic pain and fatigue conditions. Messaging supporting physical activity needs to reflect this knowledge to reach Scotland’s least active communities successfully.
Jenni Minto MSP, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health, Scottish Government, said: “I am delighted to celebrate Scotland’s first-ever National Day of Movement with the Movement for Health coalition today. We know that building more movement into our daily lives benefits us physically, mentally and socially.
“We want to do more to support people with disabilities and long term health conditions to move more, but we need to make sure that we do that in a way that is based on an understanding of the individual challenges that people face.
“The Movement for Health coalition provides an invaluable forum to provide insights into these challenges across a range of health conditions. We must continue to use these insights, both nationally and locally, to ensure that we are providing the right support and creating a culture of movement that is accessible and welcoming to all.”
James Jopling, Scotland Director at Parkinson’s UK said: “Movement really makes a difference. By coming together and celebrating moves, big and small, we are collectively saying – This is important.
“Supporting people living with a huge variety of health conditions to benefit from movement is something that needs greater investment and prioritisation to sustain and improve the nations’ health.”
Emma Anderson, Movement for Health Manager, said: “The National Day of Movement is a powerful reminder that all movement matters.
“Whether it’s a short walk, a gentle stretch, or dancing in your kitchen, it’s about celebrating what people can do. That’s how we create a more active, inclusive Scotland – by making space for every kind of movement.
“Our coalition members and partners see every day how movement transforms lives.
“Today was a chance to showcase just that – highlighting the joy, connection, and confidence that come when people are supported to move in ways that feel right for them.
“We’re grateful to everyone who joined us today to celebrate our achievements and hope that, together, we can continue to champion inclusive movement across Scotland.”
The Scottish Government has committed to simplifying crofting law. This first phase of legislation seeks to “correct known anomalies” in the current legislation. The Scottish Government also acknowledges that a future conversation to consider more fundamental changes may be needed.
This phase 1 Bill would aim to:
help more people become crofters and better support existing crofters and their activities and businesses;
enable more and different activity to be undertaken on common grazings, including peatland restoration and other environmental initiatives;
empower the Crofting Commission to tackle breaches of duty through streamlined processes, and;
resolve crofting regulatory issues more quickly through new and revised powers for Crofting Commission.
The Bill would also merge the Scottish Land Court and Lands Tribunal for Scotland.
Launching the call for views, Committee Convener, Finlay Carson MSP, said: “The Scottish Government is clear that, although more fundamental reform of crofting legislation may be required in the future, this more tightly focused Bill would “correct known anomalies” in crofting legislation.
“Our inquiry will look at these proposed corrections and we’re asking for your views on whether they will address some of the current difficulties in crofting law. Will the proposals solve the problems they seek to address? What other changes are needed that are not included? And will merging the Scottish Land Court and Lands Tribunal for Scotland effect positive and necessary change?”
The Committee intends to take formal evidence on the Bill at Holyrood from September to November with a report to Parliament expected by the end of the year.
Members also hope to visit a crofting community as part of their scrutiny, to speak with crofters about how the Bill’s proposals would impact crofting communities.
The call for views will be open until Friday 5 September 2025.
During the First Minister’s Questions on Thursday MSP Foysol Choudhury questioned the Scottish Government on the accuracy of the expected wait times given to patients seeking specialist treatment from the NHS.
He raised concerns about why patients are being left in the dark regarding NHS wait times after being referred to see a specialist.
“Patients and families need to know what to expect. Right now, they’re left in limbo,” he said.
In the exchange, Mr Choudhury pressed the First Minister for a response:“How is the government working to ensure that patients are accurately informed of waiting times for NHS treatment following referrals to a specialist?”.
This question followed a distressing story shared by one of his constituents, whose referral to be seen by a specialist has far exceeded any acceptable limits, with no set date for an appointment after over a year of waiting since the initial referral.
Mr Choudhury also questioned whether the First Minister would acknowledge that his Government has lost control of escalating waiting times for specialist care, as these excessive delays leave patients experiencing prolonged periods of distress and uncertainty, significantly impacting their mental health.
This is not an isolated incident and is a genuine, growing concern across Scotland, with patients being told they are “on the list” without any clear indication as to when their appointment will be. This is illustrated by the following: In NHS Lothian, the number of people waiting over 52 weeks to see a dermatologist has doubled in the last year.
Mr Choudhury hopes the First Minister will consider some steps to improve patient experience and restore trust in the system.
He has called for greater transparency so that every patient can receive a clear idea of how long they may have to wait before accessing specialist treatment. He also emphasised the need for greater certainty around whether and when patients will receive care, alongside improved visibility of waiting times and targets made publicly available.
“Patients cannot, and must not, be left in the dark. We need a system where every person knows when they will be seen and what care they can expect. Until then, I will continue pressing this Government to act.”
Quotes from three of Scotland’s most well-known poets have been unveiled on the Scottish Parliament’s Canongate Wall on the Royal Mile.
Earlier this year, over 5,000 public votes were cast from people all over Scotland who chose which works by previous Scots Makars Liz Lochhead, Jackie Kay and Kathleen Jamie should feature.
The winning quotations were sent to Perthshire-based stone carver Gillian Forbes, assisted by apprentice Cameron Wallace, who carried out the letter-cutting process for the new quotes as well as many of the original ones already featured.
In total 29 quotations now feature on the Canongate Wall from Scottish writers and thinkers as well as popular proverbs and poems which are letter-cut into stones sourced from across Scotland. The Wall was designed by artist Soraya Smithson which pays tribute to the design ideas of Holyrood lead architect Enric Miralles.
The winning quotations are:
Liz Lochhead
this our one small country… our one, wondrous, spinning, dear green place. What shall we build of it, together in this our one small time and space?
– from Grace, A Handsel, New & Collected Poems, 2012
Stone cut into Achnaba Schist from Lochgilphead.
Jackie Kay
Where do you come from? ‘Here,’ I said, ‘Here. These parts.’
– from In my country, Darling: New & Selected Poems, 2007
Stone cut into Ailsa Craig Granite from Ayrshire.
Kathleen Jamie
Be brave: by the weird-song in the dark you’ll find your way.
– from The Storm, The Bonniest Companie, 2015
Stone cut into Dalbeattie Granite from Dumfriesshire.
Presiding Officer Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP said: “Adding new quotations onto one of Scotland’s most prominent public sculptures is a celebration of the talent and skill of women who are performing at the very top of their professions.
“The inspirational words of our three poets – Liz Lochhead, Jackie Kay and Kathleen Jamie – combine with the skill of stone carver Gillian Forbes, making these quotes something of real beauty using stone from across Scotland.
“This is only possible thanks to the original vision of Enric Miralles and artist Soraya Smithson, who designed the wall as a permanent reminder of our rich cultural heritage.
“I’m proud to unveil these new quotes, which ensure that this piece of living public sculpture reflects the writing talent we have in Scotland today.”
Liz Lochhead, Makar from 2011 to 2016, said: “It’s a big part of my life, being a Scot, being somebody who has a parliament, and getting some of my words on the walls here, it’s fantastic.”
Jackie Kay, Makar from 2016 to 2021, said: “It’s a huge honour and so extraordinary to be carved into stone.
“It’s so strange to think of your words surviving you – but in a sense, that’s every writer’s dream.”
Kathleen Jamie, Makar from 2021 to 2024, said: “Poetry is very democratic. It’s available to anybody – through libraries, through memory.
Plans to transform social care across Scotland will be progressed after the Scottish Parliament approved the Care Reform (Scotland) Bill.
Thousands of people with experience of accessing, delivering and receiving social care, social work and community health services have helped co-design the legislation, putting people at the heart of reform.
The Bill will bring forward a number of enhancements to social care that include:
enshrining Anne’s Law into legislation to uphold the rights of people living in adult care homes to see loved ones and identify an essential care supporter
strengthening support for unpaid carers by establishing a legal right to breaks, following the additional £13 million already allocated for up to 40,000 carers to take voluntary sector short breaks
empowering people to access information on their care and improving the flow of information across care settings
improving access to independent advocacy to guarantee people are heard and involved in decisions about their own care
creating a National Chief Social Work Adviser role to provide professional leadership and champion the sector, as part of plans for a new National Social Work Agency.
Alongside the Bill, an advisory board will be established to drive progress and scrutinise reform, replacing an interim board that met for the first time in May.
Social Care Minister Maree Todd said: “More than 200,000 people across Scotland access care each year.
“Anyone may need care during their lives, and that care should be high quality and delivered consistently across Scotland.
“That is why we have been so determined to bring forward much-needed reform, alongside the work we are already doing through the near £2.2 billion total investment in social care and integration in 2025-26.
“Reform is not easy to deliver and it is being made more challenging by recent UK Government changes to Employer National Insurance Contributions and changes to migration. These will undoubtedly impact on care delivery.
“However, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to deliver the sustainable change to social care that people urgently need.
“This is a significant step that will strengthen the rights of people living in care homes, support unpaid carers and social workers and improve experiences for the many people who access social care across Scotland.”
An essential care supporter is someone, for example close relatives or friends, who plays a vital role in providing their loved ones with regular care and support alongside staff. This includes companionship, personal support and advocacy.
