Martin Whitfield MSP has welcomed this year’s Month of the Military Child.
It takes place throughout April and celebrates children and young people from Armed Forces and Veteran families across the globe.
Children from Armed Forces families lead unique lives. In particular, they are incredibly geographically mobile and have to face the challenge of interrupted learning. They are a distinct group, and it is vital society celebrates their lived experiences and meet their additional support needs.
Research suggests that there are more than 12,497 children and young people with an Armed Forces background in Scottish education right now. They are present across all 32 council areas in Scotland.
Forces Children Scotland is a charity that supports children and young people from serving personnel, reservist and veteran families to reach their potential and thrive. It achieves this by working collaboratively across sectors to drive improvements which reflect and support the unique challenges they face and amplifying their voices on the development of policy and practice.
Events for the month in Scotland are co-ordinated by Forces Children Scotland. Importantly, a Celebration Pack is at the heart of suggestions for activities to be held during the month.
Martin Whitfield MSP said:
“Children from the Armed Forces communities can experience a life very different and unique to that of their civilian peers. Moreover, they often have specific challenges and obstacles to be faced and overcome, especially in relation to education.
“Month of the Military Child provides an opportunity to celebrate this unique identity, ensuring children and young people from this community feel heard, are seen, and their lives better understood.
“I welcome the month and the work of Forces Children Scotland. Additionally, I’m encouraging anyone working with children from this community to get involved and help celebrate them.”
For more information about Month of the Military Child in Scotland visit Month of the military child – Forces Children Scotland.