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Scottish Government UNCRC Innovation Fund: South Lanarkshire pathways project 

November 21, 2024 by Children's Rights Team No Comments | Category Children & young people, Education, Guest blog

The Scottish Government has funded several initiatives, through the UNCRC (United Nations Convention on Rights of a Child) Innovation Fund, to support public authorities to embed a children’s human rights approach. Eight projects were funded, led by local authorities and including partnerships with organisations in the arts, education, justice and health sectors. The projects were developed and have been thriving even before the UNCRC (Incorporation) (Scotland) Act 2024 came into force on July 16 this year.  Below is an example of a project in South Lanarkshire. Check out the blog post tomorrow to read about another interesting Innovation Fund project.

South Lanarkshire Pathways project

South Lanarkshire Council developed a project which focuses on empowering young people, amplifying community views, and driving systemic change.

This project is creating a vital support system for young people whose rights may be at risk, empowering them to advocate for their rights and build a brighter future.

Seven Pathfinder schools across South Lanarkshire each selected three students to form a dynamic team of advocates who are passionate about championing children’s rights. This diverse group is learning essential leadership skills, to equip the young people to serve as empowered representatives for their peers throughout South Lanarkshire. By providing these young people with a platform and new skills, the project helps amplify their views and is strengthening the region’s commitment to children’s rights and well–being.

Their mission is clear: advocate for systemic change by highlighting the specific needs of young people whose rights may be at risk. Through youth-led consultations and events, these young leaders are gathering real stories and experiences that will help shape policy and practice changes in their communities. By nurturing confident, skilled advocates, the project aims to create a ripple effect of positive change, ensuring that every young person in South Lanarkshire has equal access to their rights and opportunities.

The Minister for Children, Young People, and The Promise met with these young leaders to hear about their experiences on the project and record a podcast. The young leaders asked the Minister about her role, what difference she hopes the UNCRC Act will make to the lives of children and young people, as well as some more informal questions such as her favourite hobbies! Learning how to create and develop podcasts has been a useful way for the young people to get to know each other better.

Remember to check out the blog again tomorrow to read about ‘Hello in There, Wee One: A project to connect with Dundee’s newest citizens’.

Read more blog posts on children and young people engagement.

Tags: children and young people, children's rights, guest blog, UNCRC, young people

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