The Council has become one of the first local authorities in Scotland to formally adopt the Forces Children’s Rights Charter.
The Charter reaffirms the Council's commitment to supporting children and young people from Armed Forces families across the region.
At today’s full Council meeting, councillors approved a motion proposed by Councillor John Greenwell, endorsing the Charter and recognising the valuable contribution made by Armed Forces families within the region.
Unique challenges
The motion highlighted the unique challenges that some Armed Forces children can experience because of parental deployment, family separation, high levels of mobility and transitions between schools and communities.
Councillor John Greenwell, Armed Forces and Veterans Champion
“Armed Forces families play an important role in our communities and it’s vital that we recognise the experiences of children and young people from military families.
“By adopting this Charter, we’re demonstrating our commitment to ensuring that Forces children are understood, supported and able to access the opportunities they need to thrive.”
Developed by Forces Children Scotland in partnership with children and young people, the Forces Children’s Rights Charter is a rights-based framework founded on the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
Military families
It sets out what children from military families believe they need to have their rights respected, protected and supported.
As part of the motion, the Council agreed to endorse and adopt the Charter, support continued awareness of the needs of Armed Forces children and young people across Council services and partner orgaisations. The initiative will also be promoted through local schools and community planning partners.
Robert Reid, Policy and Campaigns Officer at Forces Children Scotland
“Forces children can face challenges linked to their parent’s service, particularly around transitions between schools and periods of family separation. Having the right support in place at the right time can make a significant difference to their wellbeing and educational outcomes.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with Cllr John Greenwell and his colleagues over recent months to reach this point. Today’s endorsement demonstrates that the Council takes the rights and experiences of Armed Forces children and young people seriously.”