Children in Scotland’s response to the Programme for Government 2025-26

Following the publication of the 2025-26 Programme for Government, Chief Executive of Children in Scotland Judith Turbyne said:

“In yesterday’s Programme for Government the First Minister described eradicating child poverty as a ‘national mission’. We are delighted with the Government’s ongoing commitment as tackling poverty is essential if we are to build a Scotland where we can really make rights real for all our children. The programme reflects ongoing work, and we would urge the government to make sure that there is consideration of the further ambitious investment and urgent action that is needed to meet child poverty targets. The ‘Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan’ will be key in providing the clarity needed in terms of how we will meet these targets.

“We welcome plans to bring forward the Children and Young People (Care) (Scotland) Bill that will support The Promise. Now is the time for prompt action to ensure that the legislation delivers the change promised to care experienced children and young people across Scotland.

“For the Programme to succeed, the Scottish Government will need a strong and resilient third sector. We are pleased that there has been progress and recognise that the Fairer Funding pilot is a positive first step. We need to build on that as quickly as possible to ensure that the third sector has the security it needs to be able to invest in our babies, children, young people and families in the right way at the right time and in a way that has the necessary long-term impact.”