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Children First

@childrenfirst.bsky.social
840 followers 163 following 195 posts

Children First is Scotland’s national children’s charity. We stand up for children, keep them safe and support them to recover from trauma and abuse through our national and local services.

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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 15/12/2025
www.heraldscotland.com/news/2569677... “When the system is so overloaded because it is the only option, those children who do need that response cannot get to it quick enough.” @margl24.bsky.social spoke to @rebeccamccurdy.bsky.social at @heraldscotland.bsky.social about CAMHS waiting times.
heraldscotland.com
Scotland cannot 'CAHMHS way out of child mental health emergency', charity warns
The Scottish Government has been told it cannot continue to 'CAMHS its way out of the mental health emergency' among children.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 02/12/2025
We were pleased to welcome @martinwhitfieldmsp.bsky.social and @pfokane.bsky.social to our support line today for a discussion about our national offer of digital and phone-based whole family support. Find out more about our call for a comprehensive offer of whole family support: ow.ly/YMgv50XAF1V
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 02/12/2025
Children First is there for children and families when they need it most. But we can’t do it without you. Families like Jack and his mum Emma found hope and healing thanks to the support of our team. Your donation helps protect Scotland’s children. Visit childrenfirst.org.uk/appeal.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 01/12/2025
You can put Scotland's children first. Tragically, this Christmas, thousands of children across Scotland will wake up in crisis, full of fear and worry. Donate today. Visit childrenfirst.org.uk/appeal or call 0345 10 80 111. cotland's children first.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 26/11/2025
Poverty harms children’s health, happiness and learning. Scrapping the two-child cap is progress but both governments must go further and faster to meet Scotland’s legal child poverty targets. Read @margl24.bsky.social's full statement on this here: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/news/respons...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 25/11/2025
New Recorded Crime in Scotland statistics released today show indecent images of children increased by 24 percent. "These shocking figures must be the wake-up call that Scotland needs," says our CEO @margl24.bsky.social. Read her full statement here: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/news/respons...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 25/11/2025
You can keep Scotland's children safe. Their hopes, dreams and opportunities are in your hands. Their future is our future. Donate today. Visit childrenfirst.org.uk/appeal or call 0345 10 80 111.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 22/11/2025
Children First helped Jack and his mum Emma through a dark time. They are now looking forward to a brighter future. We need your help to continue our life-changing work. Donate today to help more families like Jack and Emma's at www.childrenfirst.org.uk/appeal or by calling 0345 10 80 111.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 20/11/2025
This World Children’s Day we’re asking everyone to listen to children and young people and stand up for children's rights. The hopes and dreams of children and young people aren’t beyond Scotland’s reach. Read our blog from @margl24.bsky.social on Third Force News here: lnkd.in/eenMYtMk
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Reposted by Children First
The Children's Society @childrenssociety.bsky.social · 14/11/2025
One year of Space to Grow! Thanks to #BBCChildrenInNeed, we’ve reached 6,000+ children across 13 UK locations, helping children feel safer, happier & more supported. Thank you to everyone @childrenfirst.bsky.social @macsni.bsky.social @healthfoundation.bsky.social @impurbanhealth.bsky.social
Group of adults posing together indoors at an event with Space to grow banners in the background.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 17/11/2025
This Christmas, you can protect Scotland’s children. Like you, Children First believes that every child deserves a safe and happy childhood. Visit childrenfirst.org.uk/appeal or call 0345 10 80 111 to donate to our Christmas appeal now. #ProtectingScotlandsChildren
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 07/11/2025
To round off #TrusteesWeek, today we hear from Maria, one of the nine amazing Trustees on our Board at Children First. Thank you Maria, Joy, Rosemary, Tony, Paul, Farah, Malcolm, Lloyd, Lindsay and Anne, our special advisor for guiding us in our mission to protect Scotland’s children.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
This #TrusteesWeek, we’re continuing to celebrate our Trustees who guide us in our mission to protect Scotland’s children. Today it's Tony's turn to share his thoughts on being a trustee.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
Thank you to @martinwhitfieldmsp.bsky.social for raising a vital question at First Minister’s Questions today: What urgent action will the Scottish Government take to tackle the online abuse of children? Watch the exchange here: ow.ly/SUI850XnPx0 Read our statement here: ow.ly/vrfw50XnPx1
ow.ly
Meeting of the Parliament | Scottish Parliament TV
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 05/11/2025
Next up to share their thoughts on what being a Children First Trustee means to them is Rosemary. #TrusteesWeek Huge thanks to Rosemary and all our trustees who help us protect Scotland's children. If you feel inspired to volunteer with us, click here: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/get-involved...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
Throughout #TrusteesWeek, we’re reflecting on the contribution of our brilliant Trustees at Children First. Next up is Lloyd who shares what being a Trustee with Scotland's national children's charity means to him.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 03/11/2025
This #TrusteesWeek, we’re celebrating our Trustees who guide us in our mission to protect Scotland’s children. Thank you Joy, Rosemary, Maria, Tony, Paul, Farah, Malcolm, Lloyd, Lindsay and Anne, our special advisor. We'll be sharing their thoughts on being a trustee this week. First up is Joy.
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Reposted by Children First
Liberty @libertyhq.bsky.social · 03/11/2025
75 years since the European Convention on Human Rights was signed, it’s still protecting us all. That’s why almost 300 organisations are calling on our government and politicians to REJECT the harmful claim that human rights aren’t in the public interest. #echr #humanrights
Text on green background: Almost 300 UK organisations call on our government and politicians to defend our human rights. Image of logos on white background: Liberty, Ben and Jerry's, Amnesty International UK, Shelter, Parkinson's UK, Mind, Refugee Council, Centre for Military Justice, Refuge, INQUEST, Disability Action, Rene Cassin, End Violence Against Women, Runnymede Trust, Centre for Women's Justice
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 29/10/2025
Children and young people have told us what matters when considering places and spaces for #BairnsHoose. It’s important we listen. Watch our new animation co-produced with children in Ayrshire to hear directly from them about what they want decision-makers to prioritise.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 29/10/2025
Are you working with a family worried about rising energy bills this autumn? Last year Children First’s support line helped over 1,000 families secure nearly £2.6 million in extra income. Read our latest blog including top energy advice tips here: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/news/blog-to...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 28/10/2025
At Children First we’ve seen a surge in demand for support with emotional wellbeing and have helped over 1,000 more people this year. Online harm is one of the top concerns children have. Amelia*, 14, bravely spoke out after being targeted online. Read her story here: ow.ly/EK3o50XiT8A
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 27/10/2025
Five years on from the Children (Scotland) Act 2020, too many promises to children and families remain unfulfilled. In our joint letter to the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee, we're calling for urgent action. Read more here:➡️https://ow.ly/V0nU50Xil2X @scotwomensaid.bsky.social
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 27/10/2025
Abuse, neglect and trauma are robbing many children of their childhood years. This needs to stop. Put Scotland's children first. Donate today: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/donate
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 25/10/2025
A brighter future for Scotland’s children is a brighter future for us all. That's why, along with 1000s of others we marched in Edinburgh today to show that #ScotlandDemandsBetter and call for more urgent action to end child poverty once and for all.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 24/10/2025
Stand up for Scotland's children. Join us in Edinburgh tomorrow and march for a brighter future for all of us. #ScotlandDemandsBetter scotland-demands-better.com.
Graphic saying We support Scotland demands better. The march for all of us - Edinburgh -25 Oct. www.scotland-demands-better.com  with Children First logo
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One Parent Families Scotland @opfs.org.uk · 23/10/2025
Too many children are missing out on the support they deserve. Our report with @fifegingerbread.bsky.social & @ipprscotland.bsky shows how to make the system fairer, safer and better for everyone. 👉 opfs.org.uk/get-involved... #TransformingChildMaintenance
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 09/10/2025
To round off Challenge Poverty Week our Chief Executive @margl24.bsky.social will be speaking at the End Child Poverty Fringe at the SNP Conference 2025 on Saturday chaired by @sa4dunfermline.bsky.social. Read our latest blog on why we’ll never stop fighting to end child poverty➡️ ow.ly/AfmA50X95aH
ow.ly
We’ll never stop fighting for an end to child poverty - TFN
This Challenge Poverty Week, Children First policy manager Lily Humphreys lays out what needs to change to end child poverty in Scotland
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 08/10/2025
Today @auditscotland.bsky.social has released a report on progress towards keeping @thepromise.scot. Children First is calling for investment in prevention and whole family support to ensure the Promise is kept. Read @margl24.bsky.social's full statement ➡️ www.childrenfirst.org.uk/news/comment...
childrenfirst.org.uk
Comment on Audit Scotland report on the Promise | Children First
Children First respond to latest report on progress to keeping the Promise to care-experienced children and young people
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 07/10/2025
Could you help give children a brighter future by being the next leader of our team in Aberdeen? This is a fantastic opportunity to lead a skilled team delivering expert support that makes a real difference to the lives of children and families. Find out more in our blog: ➡️ ow.ly/4bWF50X7B0B
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 06/10/2025
As we celebrate Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week, Children First and Kyniska Advocacy are reflecting on our partnership to build safer futures in sport. Read our joint blog here ➡️ ow.ly/fCOX50X73e9 #SheCanSheWill
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
Could you be our new Service Manager in Aberdeen? We are seeking a leader with heart, energy and vision to help make a life-changing impact on children and families. Find out more about this fantastic opportunity and apply here: ow.ly/H3pj50X4qkL
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 27/09/2025
We all know the negative impact social media can have on our mental health and sadly children and young people are among the hardest hit, with a mental health crisis and the constant threat of online harm to contend with.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 25/09/2025
Our family wellbeing service is a life-changing alternative to CAMHS. Recent research shows it led to an 86% reduction in repeat child mental health visits to GPs. We're calling for a national roll-out to tackle mental health waiting times. Read more: childrenfirst.org.uk/news/childre...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 24/09/2025
Read our response to the First Minister's pledge to make eradicating child poverty through whole family support a "truly national mission" here ➡️ www.childrenfirst.org.uk/news/first-m... For more on the First Minister's speech click here: nen.press/eradicating-...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 23/09/2025
Today we launched our manifesto for the 2026 Holyrood elections. We’re urging the next Scottish Government to take action to tackle the national childhood emergency, protect children and safeguard childhood. Read it here: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/media/4r3p44...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 16/09/2025
At our AGM today we shared our 2024/2025 annual report and the lifechanging impact Children First has had on babies, children, young people and families across Scotland in the past year. You can read it here: ➡️ ow.ly/Abom50WXAkb
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 16/09/2025
The Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill is being voted on today in the Scottish Parliament. While it is a welcome step forward, the Bill must lead to real, practical improvements for children and families affected by trauma. Read our full briefing for MSPs here ➡️ lnkd.in/ed4S3ATE
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 11/09/2025
Children First’s evidence was highlighted in the Education Committee’s session on legislation to Keep the Promise. The draft Bill misses key chances to support kinship carers and consistent access to Family Group Decision Making. Read our briefings here: childrenfirst.org.uk/about-us/pub...
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goodmovesjobs.bsky.social @goodmovesjobs.bsky.social · 08/09/2025
Project Worker - Participation and Children’s Rights with @childrenfirst.bsky.social Bairns Hoose team in the Scottish Borders 📍Selkirk 💷£30,002 – £35,076 pro-rata 📅 28 hours and fixed term till 31st March 2026 tinyurl.com/399sjrak #ChildrensRights
tinyurl.com
Project Worker - Participation and Children’s Rights with Children First – Goodmoves
A fantastic opportunity to come and join the Children First team in Scottish BordersWe are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Participation and Children’s Rights Project Worker to join o...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 08/09/2025
Every child deserves a safe childhood. But right now, one in four children in Scotland are living in poverty. Leave a gift in your Will to Children First. Your legacy can protect children for generations. Request your free legacy guide today on our website, at: childrenfirst.org.uk/legacy/
childrenfirst.org.uk
Download your free legacy guide today
Change the lives of vulnerable children in Scotland by leaving a gift in your will.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 05/09/2025
Our friend Malcolm Appleby has been busy crafting this year's stunning Banchory Bangle. This year's “Bunnies and Brambles” design celebrates nature, renewal and hope. To be in with a chance of winning one of these beautiful bangles, head over to our website www.childrenfirst.org.uk/get-involved...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 03/09/2025
Josie was in Primary 7 when something difficult happened to her. It was really tough, but with support her life is now calmer and “things are amazing.” She created this poster to share her advice to adults about what could make things better for children and support the development of #BairnsHoose.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 02/09/2025
Today’s #CAMHS stats show shorter waits—but 4 months is still too long for a child in distress. @margl24.bsky.social said: “Today’s figures show the importance of keeping the spotlight on children’s mental health. (1/2)
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 29/08/2025
Two years ago we opened Scotland’s first Bairns Hoose to children's experiences of protection & justice. Today we're helping shape Bairns Hooses across the country & sharing children's voices to keep their rights at the centre & inspire ongoing change. 1/2 www.childrenfirst.org.uk/news/finding...
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 28/08/2025
We're delighted to open the Aberdeenshire Bairns Hoose with @abshirecouncil.bsky.social & partners, with Scottish Government funding. Children in rural Scotland can now access specialist support to recover from trauma in a child-friendly space with all the services they need under one roof. 1/2
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 27/08/2025
Today you may have read news headlines about energy bills and food prices continuing to rise. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article... If you’re working with a family worried about how to make ends meet our expert advisors can provide help on 08000 28 22 33 or at www.childrenfirst.org.uk/supportline
bbc.co.uk
Energy price cap: Typical annual household bill to rise by £35 in October
The £35 a year increase for a typical household is twice what analysts had predicted.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 18/08/2025
Our Chief Executive @margl24.bsky.social joined 240 charities from across the country in an open letter to the First Minister warning that immediate action is needed to avert a health and social care crisis across Scotland. Read the letter below and our full statement here: ow.ly/rwiQ50WHp2r
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 15/08/2025
Autumn is just around the corner. If you’re working with a family who are worried about how they’ll pay their energy bills, our support line is here to help on 08000 28 22 33 or at www.childrenfirst.org.uk Our advisors can help parents and carers apply for the Warm Home Discount Scheme.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 14/08/2025
From 1 September 2025 we will provide the Kinship Care Advice and Support Service Scotland. With 30+ years of experience supporting kinship families, we’ll offer practical, emotional & financial help 7 days a week. Read more: www.childrenfirst.org.uk/ProvidingKinshipCareAdvice #KinshipCare
childrenfirst.org.uk
Children First to manage Kinship Care Advice Service
Scotland’s national children’s charity, Children First, will take over providing the Kinship Care Advice Service for Scotland from 1 September 2025.
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Children First @childrenfirst.bsky.social · 14/08/2025
📢 We’re proud to share the Safeguarders Panel Team Annual Report! This year’s report reflects our continued commitment to protecting children’s rights and ensuring their voices are heard in legal proceedings. It highlights the impact of our dedicated team across Scotland. 📄
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Safeguarders Panel Team Annual Report 2024-2025
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